Final answer:
Active core-rewarming for a hypothermic patient involves the application of heat to the body's core, using methods like warmed IV fluids, heated oxygen, and extracorporeal rewarming techniques.
Step-by-step explanation:
Active core-rewarming for a hypothermic patient involves direct application of heat to the body's core, rather than the extremities, to warm the individual from the inside out. It is a critical procedure for severe hypothermia when the body's temperature drops below the normal range.
For active core-rewarming, medical professionals use several methods such as warmed intravenous fluids, heated and humidified oxygen, peritoneal dialysis with warmed fluids, or extracorporeal rewarming techniques like cardiopulmonary bypass. These interventions facilitate the heating of the blood and internal organs, subsequently raising the overall core temperature of the body. This differs from controlled hypothermia used during certain medical procedures, where the body temperature is intentionally reduced in a controlled manner to decrease metabolic demand and protect organs.