What is a common consequence of severe hypothermia in trauma patients?

Severe hypothermia can significantly affect the body's physiological response, particularly in trauma patients. One of the common consequences is coagulation complications. As the body temperature drops, the ability of the blood to clot properly decreases. This occurs because the enzymes and factors that are necessary for the coagulation cascade are temperature-sensitive and become less effective at lower temperatures. Hypothermia can lead to a condition known as "coagulopathy," where the patient may experience an increased risk of bleeding due to this impaired clotting ability. This is particularly critical in trauma settings, where bleeding is a primary concern, and can complicate the management of such patients.

The other options do not typically result from severe hypothermia. Dehydration is more commonly associated with heat-related illnesses rather than cold exposure. Enhanced metabolism is also unlikely in a state of severe hypothermia, as the body typically slows down its metabolic processes to conserve energy. Similarly, hypothermia does not cause an increased heart rate; instead, it can lead to bradycardia (a slowed heart rate) as the body's physiological response to conserve heat and energy.