How should a hypothermic patient be treated?

Using a hypothermia wrap is the appropriate treatment for a hypothermic patient because it helps to gently warm the body while preventing further heat loss. A hypothermia wrap typically consists of insulated materials that cover the patient, retaining body heat and promoting gradual rewarming. This method is effective because it carefully balances the need to raise the body temperature without causing shock from sudden temperature changes.

In contrast to this method, using ice packs would exacerbate the situation by lowering the body temperature further. Encouraging a hypothermic patient to drink cold fluids would not be beneficial, as it could contribute to lowering the core temperature even more. Warm baths may seem like a plausible option; however, they can raise the body temperature too quickly and potentially cause dangerous complications such as rewarming shock or cardiac arrhythmias. Thus, the hypothermia wrap ensures a safe and effective approach to treatment.