Which statement is true regarding severe hypothermia management?

• A. Active rewarming should not be used
• B. Active rewarming should be used immediately
• C. Passive warming alone is dangerous
• D. Do not attempt warming at all

Answer: (A)

Severe hypothermia needs actively adding heat, not just letting the body warm itself. A person in this state can’t generate enough heat on their own, so you start active rewarming to raise the core temperature.

Active rewarming use includes external methods like forced-air warming blankets or radiant heat, and, in more severe cases or very cold core temperatures, internal methods such as warmed IV fluids or warmed humidified gases. Passive warming (blankets and shielding from the cold) helps but is not sufficient by itself and can delay recovery or worsen complications.

Begin warming promptly and combine passive warmth with active rewarming as available. If the person is unresponsive or in cardiac arrest, maintain warmth while continuing resuscitation and rewarming efforts. This approach avoids relying on passive warming alone and leverages active strategies to restore temperature safely.