Hypothermia is a common and often overlooked complication of traumatic injury. Even in warm environments, trauma patients can lose body heat rapidly due to blood loss, exposure, wet clothing, shock, and environmental conditions.

Hypothermia worsens patient outcomes by impairing the body’s ability to clot and control bleeding. 

Cold blood won’t clot.

Normal body temperature is approximately 98.6°F (37°C). As body temperature falls, clotting becomes less effective. Once core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), clotting function deteriorates significantly, increasing the risk of continued bleeding and worsening shock. 

Take active measures to prevent heat loss throughout assessment and treatment. 

Hypothermia prevention measures include:

• Minimize patient exposure
• Remove wet clothing when appropriate
• Cover the patient with blankets
• Use active warming measures when available
• Protect the patient from wind and environmental exposure
• Continue reassessment throughout transport

Prevention should begin early and continue throughout patient care. Preventing heat loss is easier than correcting hypothermia once it develops. 

Remember: Cold blood won’t clot. Keep the patient warm and protect them from further heat loss.