For someone suspected of having hypothermia, what is an inappropriate action?

Using heating pads directly on the skin of someone suspected of having hypothermia is inappropriate because it can lead to serious complications. This method of warming can cause burns or tissue damage to the affected individual, whose skin may be numb and not able to sense harmful temperatures. Moreover, extreme localized heat can result in a rapid change in temperature that is not safe for a person suffering from hypothermia.

Effective treatment for hypothermia focuses on gradual warming rather than sudden exposure to high temperatures. Removing wet clothing and wrapping the person in warm blankets helps to retain body heat and promotes a safe rate of rewarming. Offering warm, non-alcoholic beverages can also aid in raising the core body temperature, provided the person is conscious and able to swallow safely. These approaches minimize the risk of further injury and support the body's natural recovery process.