The Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Out-of-Hospital Evaluation and Treatment of Accidental Hypothermia are the internationally recognized Guidelines on hypothermia for rescue workers worldwide. The Wilderness Medical Society has established the Guidelines engaging researchers and rescue units on all continents.
The Guidelines give advice on practical aspects rescue workers meet in the field. One key challenge is how to wrap a patient in such a way that body temperature loss is optimally reduced. It states: ”The wrap implements the basic treatment principles from the Guidelines and also packages the patient for transport to medical facilities. There are many commercial hypothermia wraps available, but many are too large and heavy to be carried in a backpack.” The Guidelines recommend the ”Burrito principle” for wrapping patients.
CEO Ketil Thorsen says the Guidelines represent the essence of recent research, and as such are important for Thermosaver to comply with. ”Thermosaver corresponds well with the principles developed in the Guidelines. The ”Burrito” wrapping principle, the integrated and absorbent vapour barrier, the wind and water resistent outer layer and effective carryng handles all meet recommendations in the Guidelines. So do Thermosaver’s features of being small, 2,7 kg and easy to operate,” says Ketil Thorsen.
Definition of Hypothermia as given by The Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practical Guidelines for the Out-of-Hospital Evaluation and Treatement of Accidental Hypothermia:
«Accidental hypothermia is defined as an unintentional drop in core temperature to 35C or lower. Accidental hypothermia due to environmental exposure can occur during any season and in most climates, with cold and wet environments posing the greatest risk. Throughout history, it has been a disease of war and disasters, but those who work and recreate outside, especially in the wilderness, place themselves at risk for hypothermia. In addition to occurring in wilderness environments, hypothermia is associated with urban homelessness, particularly with the use of alcohol and other intoxicating substances.»
