Accidental hypothermia

Background

Definition: Core Temp < 35°C (95 °F)

1. Mild hypothermia (32-35°C) (90-95)
2. Moderate hypothermia (28-32°C)
3. Severe hypothermia (<28°C)

Work-Up

ECG: Osborne J wave "camel hump"

DDx

1. Accidental/environmental
2. Sepsis
3. Hypoendocrine states (e.g. hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism, hypopituitarism)
4. Hypoglycemia (-> impaired hypothalmus)
5. CNS dysfunction, hypothalmic, e.g Wernickes
6. Head trauma , stroke, tumor
7. Drug-induced ETOH (vasodilator, CNS depressant)
8. Skin disorder - burns, exfoliative dermatitis

Treatment

Passive RewarmingActive External RewarmingActive Core Rewarming 2005 AHA guidelinesVfib--> Attempt defib ONCE; no meds until >30°C (86°F)Repeat defib once >30°C (°86F)

See Also

Insert

Source

Adapted from Bessen