Why is hypothermia a concern in trauma care and what steps help prevent it in the field?

• A. It has no effect on outcomes
• B. It worsens coagulopathy and mortality
• C. It improves immunity
• D. It reduces the need for warming

Answer: (B)

Hypothermia in trauma care matters because cold impairs the body’s ability to form clots and slows physiological processes, so bleeding can continue more easily and patients are more likely to die. Temperature below normal disrupts the coagulation cascade and platelet function, worsening coagulopathy and complicating resuscitation, which is why warming early improves outcomes. In the field, prevent heat loss by keeping the patient dry and shielded from wind, removing unnecessary exposure, and using blankets or a forced‑air warming device when available. Use warmed IV fluids and heated humidified oxygen if possible, maintain a warm ambient environment in the transport setting, and minimize delays to definitive care so resuscitation can continue while the patient is kept as warm as possible.