What should be monitored in a patient with severe hypothermia as part of treatment?

In a patient with severe hypothermia, monitoring the carotid pulse is crucial because it provides information about the patient's cardiovascular status. When the body temperature drops significantly, metabolic processes slow down, and heart rate and blood pressure can become dangerously low. The carotid pulse is one of the more reliable indicators of circulation, especially in cases where peripheral pulses may be weak or absent due to vasoconstriction.

Assessing the carotid pulse allows healthcare providers to determine if blood is still effectively circulating to vital organs, which is particularly important in life-threatening situations. Additionally, it can guide decisions about resuscitation efforts.

While alertness level, blood pressure, and skin temperature are relevant in assessing a patient with hypothermia, none provide the immediate and direct information regarding circulatory status as effectively as monitoring the carotid pulse does. Hence, monitoring the carotid pulse is a key component of treatment for severe hypothermia.