If a hypothermia patient arrests, what should you do first?

In the case of a hypothermic patient who has gone into cardiac arrest, the immediate priority is to initiate CPR. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is critical because it helps maintain blood circulation and oxygen supply to vital organs, which can be particularly compromised in a patient suffering from hypothermia.

Hypothermia can lead to a decreased heart rate and impaired responsiveness of the heart's electrical conduction system, making it likely for the patient to experience cardiac arrest. Starting CPR continuously ensures that any potential perfusion of the heart and brain is maintained, even in a low-temperature environment where metabolic processes are slowed down.

Other actions, such as calling for backup assistance or providing warm fluids, while important, should occur after securing the essential life support measures that CPR provides. Similarly, checking the patient’s pulse may not yield reliable information in severely hypothermic patients, as the heart may be too weak to palpate adequately or may be beating at very low rates. Hence, beginning CPR continuously is the most crucial step in this critical situation.