Why are drugs and alcohol not administered to a patient with hypothermia?

Why are drugs and alcohol not administered to a patient with hypothermia?

• A. They can lead to further dehydration
• B. They can cause a further reduction of core temperature
• C. They may induce fever
• D. They interfere with blood clotting

Answer: (B)

In cases of hypothermia, administering drugs and alcohol can lead to a further reduction of the core temperature, which is why this option is the most accurate. Alcohol, in particular, is a vasodilator, meaning it causes blood vessels to expand. In a hypothermic patient, this can lead to increased heat loss from the body's core as blood flows closer to the skin's surface. The further cooling of core temperature is dangerous and can exacerbate the already critical condition of a person suffering from hypothermia. Additionally, substances such as drugs may not work effectively in a hypothermic state, and could impair the patient's overall physiological response, further complicating treatment efforts. Therefore, it's essential to avoid these substances to prevent worsening the patient's condition.

In cases of hypothermia, administering drugs and alcohol can lead to a further reduction of the core temperature, which is why this option is the most accurate. Alcohol, in particular, is a vasodilator, meaning it causes blood vessels to expand. In a hypothermic patient, this can lead to increased heat loss from the body's core as blood flows closer to the skin's surface. The further cooling of core temperature is dangerous and can exacerbate the already critical condition of a person suffering from hypothermia.

Additionally, substances such as drugs may not work effectively in a hypothermic state, and could impair the patient's overall physiological response, further complicating treatment efforts. Therefore, it's essential to avoid these substances to prevent worsening the patient's condition.