GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF ACCIDENTAL HYPOTHERMIA IN A UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL IN NORTHERN NORWAY

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Traumatology
• Critical Care

Background:

• Accidental hypothermia is a critical trauma requiring specialized management.
• Effective treatment necessitates clear communication and collaboration among healthcare providers.
• Existing protocols may not adequately address the complexities of severe hypothermia cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a communication protocol for managing accidental hypothermia victims.
• To define criteria for direct transport to a University hospital for severe cases.
• To outline appropriate rewarming strategies based on core temperature and circulatory status.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing guidelines for trauma and hypothermia management.
• Development of a tiered communication and treatment algorithm.
• Case-based discussion of logistical and technical considerations for inter-hospital transfer.

Main Results:

• Victims with adequate circulation and core temperature < 35°C can be actively warmed at local emergency surgical care facilities.
• Patients with no signs of life, inadequate circulation, or core temperature < 32°C require immediate transport to a University hospital for advanced life support and extracorporeal rewarming.
• Contact with the University hospital is crucial for core temperatures < 28°C or inadequate circulation to discuss extracorporeal rewarming.

Conclusions:

• A standardized communication protocol is essential for optimal accidental hypothermia victim care.
• Early and direct communication with regional University hospitals improves decision-making for severe hypothermia.
• Specific criteria guide the level of care and transport decisions for hypothermic patients.