How should hypothermia be managed in the field?

• A. Immediately immerse in warm bath.
• B. Remove all clothing and expose to air to speed warming.
• C. Move to a warm environment, remove wet clothing, cover with blankets, and monitor; avoid rapid rewarming.
• D. Administer hot drinks only.

Answer: (C)

In the field, the priority is preventing further heat loss and warming the person gradually while monitoring their condition. Move them to a warm, sheltered environment, remove wet clothing, and cover with dry blankets to insulate the body. This minimizes ongoing heat loss and helps stabilize their core temperature. Avoid rapid or aggressive rewarming methods in the field—such as hot water immersion or applying direct heat to limbs—as these can cause dangerous shifts in blood flow (afterdrop) and stress the heart. Wet clothing should be removed because it accelerates cooling, while keeping them dry and protected supports safer, passive warming. Hot drinks alone aren’t the sole solution; they may be appropriate if the person is awake and able to swallow, but the overall plan is passive warming with continuous monitoring and prompt transport if symptoms persist or worsen.