Lesson 56: Hypothermia
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📘 Lesson Summary
Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35°C. It is a serious condition caused by prolonged exposure to cold and can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.
🧠 What is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. As the body temperature falls, normal body functions begin to slow down, affecting breathing, heart rate, and consciousness.
⚠️ Who is at Risk?
- Very young children
- Exposure to cold, wet or windy conditions
- Inadequate clothing
- Prolonged time outdoors in cold weather
- Living in cold environments
🔍 Recognition
- Uncontrolled shivering (may stop in severe cases)
- Pale, cold skin
- Blue lips or extremities (cyanosis)
- Slowed breathing and speech
- Confusion or disorientation
- Tiredness or unusual behaviour
- Difficulty moving or coordination problems
- Breathing difficulties
- Loss of consciousness
👉 Babies may appear floppy, refuse feeds, and feel cold to touch
🩺 Treatment
- Move to a warm, dry place as soon as possible
- Remove wet clothing carefully
- Dry and wrap in warm layers (blankets, coats, towels)
- Cover the head to reduce heat loss
- Give a warm, sugary drink if conscious
- Monitor breathing, pulse, and level of response
🚨 Call 999/112 if:
- Symptoms are severe
- There is reduced consciousness
- Breathing is affected
🚨 If Unresponsive
- Open airway and check breathing
- Place in the recovery position if breathing
- Start CPR if not breathing
⚠️ Important
- Do not apply direct heat (e.g. hot water bottles or heaters)
- Handle gently to avoid triggering cardiac arrest
- Rewarm gradually
Activity
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💡 Key Takeaway
Hypothermia is a medical emergency. Warm gradually, monitor closely, and seek help early.