What signs indicate hypothermia, and what is the EMT management?

What signs indicate hypothermia, and what is the EMT management?

• A. Shivering early; cool pale skin; confusion or lethargy; slowed or irregular pulse; handle gently, gradual rewarming, monitor and transport.
• B. Warm flushed skin; rapid movement.
• C. Sweating and tachycardia.
• D. Nausea only.

Answer: (A)

Hypothermia shows the body trying to conserve and generate heat, with shivering as an early clue. As the condition progresses, the skin becomes cool and pale, and mental status changes such as confusion or lethargy appear; the pulse slows and can become irregular. EMT management centers on keeping the person safe from further heat loss and warming them gradually while protecting airway, breathing, and circulation. Handle the patient gently to avoid jolting the heart, move them to a warm environment, remove wet clothing, and cover with dry blankets to insulate. Emphasize passive rewarming (insulation first) and monitor vitals and rhythm, then transport for definitive care. The other options describe signs of overheating or non-specific symptoms (warm, flushed skin; sweating; tachycardia; nausea alone), which do not fit hypothermia.

Hypothermia shows the body trying to conserve and generate heat, with shivering as an early clue. As the condition progresses, the skin becomes cool and pale, and mental status changes such as confusion or lethargy appear; the pulse slows and can become irregular. EMT management centers on keeping the person safe from further heat loss and warming them gradually while protecting airway, breathing, and circulation. Handle the patient gently to avoid jolting the heart, move them to a warm environment, remove wet clothing, and cover with dry blankets to insulate. Emphasize passive rewarming (insulation first) and monitor vitals and rhythm, then transport for definitive care. The other options describe signs of overheating or non-specific symptoms (warm, flushed skin; sweating; tachycardia; nausea alone), which do not fit hypothermia.