Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Indications for hospital admission in patients presenting with hypothermia include:
- Core body temperature below 36.0°C, especially if active warming cannot be promptly initiated or if the hypothermia is severe.
- Presence of clinical instability or complications such as cardiovascular compromise, altered level of consciousness, or other signs of physiological deterioration.
- Need for continuous monitoring of vital signs including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, level of consciousness, and temperature, which cannot be safely managed outside hospital.
- Requirement for active warming interventions such as forced-air warming devices or warmed intravenous fluids that are typically available in hospital settings.
- Underlying conditions or comorbidities that increase risk of adverse outcomes from hypothermia, such as major surgery, combined general and regional anesthesia, or cardiovascular risk factors.
- Situations where hypothermia is associated with other medical emergencies or complications requiring hospital-level care.
Patients with hypothermia should be admitted to hospital for active warming and monitoring until their core temperature is restored to at least 36.0°C and they are clinically stable. Admission is also indicated if there is a need for ongoing assessment and management of complications or comorbidities related to hypothermia NICE CG65,NICE CG50.