A casualty with a correctly placed tourniquet requires treatment for hypothermia. How should an active warming device be applied?

Applying an active warming device properly is crucial, especially in treating hypothermia while also managing other injuries such as those requiring a tourniquet. The recommended approach is to cover the casualty completely, except for the face. This method ensures that the entire body is warmed effectively, which is vital in promoting overall physiological recovery and stabilizing bodily functions disrupted by hypothermia.

By covering the entire body, you maximize heat retention and prevent further heat loss, enabling a more controlled warming process. It is essential to avoid covering the face, allowing for unobstructed breathing and monitoring of the casualty’s condition, while still ensuring the rest of the body is provided the necessary warmth.

Prioritizing full body coverage— while leaving the face exposed— also helps in monitoring for any possible signs of distress or changes in the casualty's state. This coverage technique can also assist in avoiding burns from the warming device itself, which can occur if direct contact with heated surfaces happens without thorough insulation.

In treating a casualty requiring both a tourniquet and hypothermia care, adequate warming techniques can significantly influence recovery outcomes by stabilizing body temperature while managing hemorrhage effectively.