Resuscitation is required whenever a patient is unable to breath or their heart stops beating. This may be due to a medical condition such as a heart attack or a result of trauma caused by an accident. While cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is essential, hypothermia may occur, especially in instances of trauma, and exacerbate the patient's condition, leading to long term complications and even death. EMS personnel need to be cognizant of this risk, and if there's any indication of hypothermia, take immediate steps to warm the patient.

The “trauma triad of death” is well known to EMS professionals. Sometimes referred to as “the lethal triad”, it consists of hypothermia, coagulopathy and acidosis occurring in victims who have experienced multiple trauma.

As EMS service providers, you have the training and experience required to provide quick and effective care to trauma patients. Often, a combination of kind words, a non-threatening environment and a warm blanket creates a sense of well-being, which can make a real difference in a patient’s perception of their situation. EMS blankets, play an important role in improving patient outcomes. Medical blankets, which may rank among the least appreciated items in the EMS tool chest, not only provide warmth, but also protect patients and emergency responders against injury. Designed for different uses, and available in a variety of materials, EMS blankets play an important role in improved patient care outcomes.