Hypothermia is diagnosed by a low rectal or tympanic temp. Incipiently, it will present with ataxia, blank stares, slurred speech, shivering, mental or physical dysfunction. Roughness, tilting and exertion can lead to inadequate cerebral circulation resulting in seizures, reflex vasodilation and ventricular fibrillation. Hypothermia is separated into various classifications and knowing the circumstances that precipitated it could have a bearing on the extent of treatment. Incipient, Primary, Secondary and Acute Hypothermia are all categories of hypothermia that are typically brought about by acute exposure.
Treatment is similar and the outcome is usually good.
Subacute or Mountain hypothermia, Chronic Hypothermia, and Mixed Hypothermia are typically more complicated. They superimpose PMH's over the lower core temperature resulting in a condition that is much more difficult to manage. When assessing your patient, cover them up immediately after assessing that area. Remember cold adaptation is primarily achieved through proper clothing, shelter and behavior.