The level of hypothermia determines whether you can effectively rewarm a person in the field. In all circumstances, make every effort to keep the victim from becoming colder.What is hypothermia?

1. Mild hypothermia - a core (measured rectally) body temperature 98.6^o F (37^o C) and 95^o F (35^oC).
2. Moderate hypothermia - a core body temperature 95^o F(35^o C) and 90^o F (32.2^o C).
3. Severe hypothermia - a core body temperature 90^o F (32.2^o C).

Signs and symptoms of hypothermia.

1. 95 to 98.6^o F (35 to 37^o C): sensation of cold; shivering; increased heart rate; urge to urinate; slight incoordination in hand movements; increased respiratory rate; increased reflexes (leg jerk when the knee is tapped); red face.
2. 90 to 95^o F (32.2 to 35^o C): increased muscular incoordination; stumbling gait; decreased or absent shivering; weakness; apathy/drowsiness/confusion; slurred speech.
3. 85 to 90^o F (29.4 to 32.2^o C): loss of shivering; confusion progressing to coma; inability to walk or follow commands; paradoxical undressing (inappropriate behavior); complaints of loss of vision; decreased respiratory rate; decreased reflexes.
4. Below 85^o F (29.4^o C): rigid muscles; decreased blood pressure, heart rate, and respirations; dilated pupils; appearance of death.

How do I treat hypothermia?

1. Suspect hypothermia. Any person who is found in a cold environment should be suspected of suffering from hypothermia.
2. Measure the victim's temperature. If possible, use a thermometer calibrated to read below 94^o F (34.4^o C). Hypothermia thermometers with a range of 75 to 105^o F (23.9 to 40.5^oC) areavailable.
3. Handle all victims gently. Rough handling can cause the heart to stop beating effectively and begin to quiver (cause a cardiac arrest).
• Do not attempt to warm the victim by vigorous exercise, rubbing the arms and legs, or immersing in warm water.
4. Prevent the victim from becoming any colder. Provide a shelter. Remove all his wet clothing and replace it with dry clothing. If the victim is coherent and can swallow without difficulty, encourage the ingestion of warm sweetened fluids.
5. Cover the victim's head and neck. Insulate the victim from above and below with blankets. If possible, put him in a sleeping bag sandwiched between two warm rescuers.
• Hot water in bottles, well insulated with clothing to prevent skin burns, may be placed next to the victim in areas of high heat transfer, such as the neck, chest wall, and groin.
6. Seek assistance as soon as possible.

Emergencies: Allergic Reaction

Emergencies: Dehydration

Emergencies: Heat-Related Illness

Emergencies: High Altitude Disorders

Emergencies: Lightning Strike

Emergencies: Near-Drowning