Hypothermia Recognition and Prevention

The Frimley Integrated Care Board (ICB) have put together some guidance regarding hypothermia which is a serious medical condition in which a person's body temperature falls below the usual level (<35ºC) as a result of being in severe cold for a long time.

In the Care Quality Commission (CQC) 'Learning from Safety Incidents' Issue 8: Hypothermia they state:

Hypothermia can develop in vulnerable people after a relatively short exposure to cold weather. It can even develop after a small drop in room temperature. Many people who use Health and Social Care services may be at risk of developing hypothermia.

They include:

• Older people in Care Homes or receiving care at home
• People with reduced mental capacity, reduced mobility or a sensory impairment
• People who cannot communicate that they are exposed to cold

Signs and Symptoms

• Shivering
• Pale skin, blue lips
• Slurred speech or mumbling
• Slow, shallow breathing
• Weak pulse
• Clumsiness or lack of co-ordination
• Drowsiness or very low energy
• Confusion or memory loss
• Loss of consciousness

Immediate treatment

• Do call 999 ambulance
• Do remove any wet clothing or pads
• Do warm patient up slowly with blankets and a hat
• Do give warm drink or soup
• Do give a high calorie snack, like chocolate
• Do keep the patient awake and talking until help arrives
• Don’t rewarm the patient too quickly, such as with a heater or hot bath
• Don’t attempt to warm the arms and legs – heating and massaging the limbs can stress the heart and lungs
• Don’t give the patient alcohol or a cigarette

The guidance also includes safeguarding considerations and tips for safety and prevention.