How should a person suffering from hypothermia be treated regarding their clothing?

A person suffering from hypothermia should have their wet clothing replaced with dry clothes to promote recovery. Wet clothing conducts heat away from the body much faster than dry clothing, which can significantly exacerbate the symptoms of hypothermia. By removing the wet clothing, the removal of this temperature-conductive barrier helps prevent further heat loss.

Replacing wet clothing with dry items helps to conserve the body’s heat, allowing it to warm up more effectively. Dry clothes also provide insulation, as they trap air close to the skin, enhancing the body’s ability to retain heat and ward off the chilling effects of external temperatures.

Other considerations, such as wearing multiple layers or keeping clothing warm without removal, do not address the immediate need to stop heat loss effectively. Wet clothing creates an immediate risk; therefore, priority is given to removing it to improve the person's situation.