Hypothermia: Diagnosis and Treatment

Hypothermia is defined as a so-called central vital sign below 35°C (95°F). Impaired thermoregulation may contribute to accidental hypothermia. Hypothermia is evaluated as mild, moderate, or severe central blood warmth and clinical features ranging from shivering to progressive bradycardia, coma, and circulatory collapse. During the diagnostic evaluation, the patient's core temperature should first be determined, followed by an ECG. Additional tests evaluate comorbidities and complications. Treatment consists of rewarming and supportive care. Cardiac arrhythmias are the main common explanation for death from hypothermia