What is the recommended approach to rewarming hypothermia in the field?

• A. Move to a warm environment, remove wet clothing, cover with blankets, and monitor; avoid rapid rewarming.
• B. Immediate warm-water immersion.
• C. Rapid external heating with direct flame.
• D. Passive cooling to avoid overheating.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to rewarm a hypothermic person gradually in the field by stopping heat loss and providing dry, insulated warmth. Move them to a warm, sheltered area, remove wet clothing, and cover with dry blankets while you monitor them and get medical care started. This approach reduces further cooling and avoids the risks of aggressive warming, such as heart stress or overheating. Direct heat sources like flames or rapid methods such as warm-water immersion can cause burns, shock, or dangerous temperature shifts, so they’re not appropriate in the field. If available, use gentle active warming (warm packs on the torso or other large areas not directly on the skin) in combination with the dry, insulated environment. Handle the person carefully and, if they’re not fully conscious, avoid giving food or drink.