Which rewarming method involves the application of an external heat source?

Active rewarming is the method that involves the application of an external heat source to elevate a person's core temperature. This process is usually implemented in situations like hypothermia, where body heat needs to be restored quickly. The external heat sources can include heating blankets, hot water bottles, or even warm intravenous fluids, depending on the circumstances and medical protocols.

In contrast, passive rewarming relies on the body's own heat generation to restore warmth, often through insulating clothing or blankets without additional heat sources. Core rewarming is a term often used interchangeably with active rewarming but focuses specifically on the central body temperature, whereas aerodynamic rewarming is not a recognized method in medical practice. Understanding the distinctions between these methods helps identify the best approaches for managing hypothermia and similar emergencies.