In treating a patient with hypothermia, what is the last resort method for rewarming?

The last resort method for rewarming a patient with hypothermia typically involves the administration of warm IV fluids. This approach is often used in moderate to severe hypothermia cases where the body’s core temperature is critically low, and external warming methods may not be sufficient to restore normothermia effectively. Warm IV fluids directly introduce heat into the circulatory system, aiding in the rapid rewarming of the core body temperature.

When considering other rewarming methods, heating packs and blankets are common first-line interventions that provide external warmth. They can be helpful in cases of mild hypothermia but may not be enough for more severe cases. Hot water immersion, while it can be effective, poses significant risks such as the potential for shock or rapid rewarming, which can lead to complications like arrhythmias or sudden cardiovascular collapse. Therefore, utilizing warm IV fluids is reserved for more critical situations, making it the last resort method in treating severe hypothermia.