Summary

• Characterised by the core body temperature lowering to <35°C (<95°F).
• As the core temperature approaches 32°C to 33°C (89.6°F to 91.4°F), acute ST elevation and the J or Osborn wave may appear on the ECG tracing. These ECG changes are pathognomonic, but they are not always present.
• Special low-reading rectal thermometers or rectal thermistor probes are preferred for measuring core body temperature.
• Initial management includes removing the patient from the cold environment, removing wet or cold clothing, warming the body with blankets, securing the airway, monitoring breathing, and maintaining circulation using warm intravenous fluids.