skip to main content

Hypothermic cardiac arrest — DIPIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardResuscitationHypothermic cardiac arrestDIPIMCDipIMC

A walker is recovered from a mountainside in cardiac arrest. The core temperature is 27 degrees Celsius and the rhythm is ventricular fibrillation. The environment remains cold.

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Limit defibrillation attempts to three and withhold resuscitation drugs until the core temperature rises above 30 degrees Celsius.

In hypothermic cardiac arrest below 30 degrees Celsius, defibrillation attempts are limited to three and resuscitation drugs are withheld until the core temperature exceeds 30 degrees, because the cold myocardium responds poorly and drugs accumulate. Above 30 degrees the drug intervals are doubled until normothermia. Prolonged resuscitation with active rewarming is justified given the potential for good neurological recovery.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines (2025)