Prevent Hypothermia Trauma Care Alert

TRAUMA AND HYPOTHERMIA ARE A DEADLY COMBINATION

The lethal trauma triad—hypothermia, acidosis, and coagulopathy—is a significant cause of death in patients with traumatic injuries. Failing to stop any one of the triad’s components leads to worsening hemorrhage and eventual death.

  • Stop the Bleeding
  • Keep ambulances and resuscitation rooms warm
  • Remove any wet clothing
  • Cover patients with blankets and other warming devices
  • Expose patients ONLY as needed for assessment and treatment
  • Warm ALL IV fluids and blood products
  • DO NOT infuse large volumes of crystalloid fluids*

*Generally, burn patients are the ONLY trauma patients who require large volumes of crystalloid fluids. Warm ALL IV fluids – burn trauma patients are especially susceptible to hypothermia.

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