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.
Right-click on the graphics below to download.
Right-click on the graphics below to download.
