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Hypothermic cardiac arrest — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardEnvironmental emergenciesHypothermic cardiac arrestRCPSC EM

A 47-year-old man is found outdoors in January with core temperature 27°C and ventricular fibrillation. He has no obvious lethal injury. CPR is started and the team is preparing transport. What is the most appropriate next step?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Continue resuscitation, limit defibrillation attempts per protocol, and arrange active rewarming/ECMO-capable transfer

Severe accidental hypothermia with cardiac arrest warrants continued resuscitation and active rewarming, with ECMO-capable transfer when feasible. Prognosis can be favourable despite prolonged arrest.

Reference: Wilderness Medical Society hypothermia guidance; Canadian emergency practice