Lidocaine is ineffective for treatment of hypothermia-induced dysrhythmias. There are no studies as yet on the usefulness of amiodarone in this setting, although it may prove to be an effective modality. A cascade of complications Ms. Froid will need admission. Cardiac arrhythmias are a common problem and the patient will need a cardiac monitor. Additionally, as the patient re-warms, it is important to watch for hypotension from the vasodilatory effects.
Elderly patients are prone to develop pneumonia and cardiac failure during recovery.
The GI system may be affected by peritonitis, pancreatitis and bleeding. As mentioned previously, DIC and intravascular thrombosis may occur due to enzyme deactivation of the clotting and natural thrombolytic pathways. Renal status will need to be closely monitored since acute tubular necrosis is a common complication. Frostbite of the extremities should be carefully sought and attention must be made to the potential development of compartment syndromes and gangrene of the extremities. The patient's acid base status will typically lean toward a metabolic acidosis.