What is the first step when rigging a patient in a hypothermia bag?

The first step when rigging a patient in a hypothermia bag is to apply a harness around the patient's waist. This step is crucial because it ensures that the patient is securely restrained as they are placed in the hypothermia bag, which significantly enhances their safety and stability during transport. The harness provides essential support and helps prevent the patient from slipping out or shifting excessively, which can be particularly important in a rescue scenario where movement could exacerbate their condition or lead to further injury.

Establishing a secure anchor point for the patient's body is fundamental to effective rigging. Once the harness is in place, the subsequent steps can be carried out effectively, ensuring that the patient remains contained within the hypothermia bag throughout the rescue process. This approach is especially relevant when working with patients who are unable to assist themselves, such as those suffering from hypothermia.

Other options, such as tying the patient’s arms to the sled, attaching the patient’s legs to the litter, or securing the hypothermia bag with a knot, would not provide the same level of initial security and stabilization. They could lead to complications or risks during the rigging process, which is why start with the waist harness is considered the most effective and recommended initial action.