A cross-sectional study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) of health care workers in emergency departments and trauma centers in 13 tertiary and 2 secondary hospitals in Shanghai regarding the management of hypothermia in severe trauma patients. 439 participants were enrolled, of which 192 (43.7%) were aged 26–34, 365 (83.1%) were women, and 426 (97.0%) were nurses. The mean score for knowledge was 13.00 [11.00–17.00] (range 0–26), attitude 30.00 [28.00–34.00] (range 7–35), and practice 28.00 [25.00–33.00] (range 9–45). Pearson analysis showed positive correlations between knowledge and attitudes (r=0.419, p<0.001), knowledge and practice (r=0.490, p<0.001) and attitudes and practice (r=0.337, p<0.001). Path analysis showed a direct effect of patient handling (β=−0.206, p<0.001) and patient volume (β=0.178, p=0.001) on knowledge, with knowledge influencing attitude (β=0.357, p<0.001) and practice (β=0.480, p<0.001). Patient handling and patient volume also had indirect effects on attitude and practice. The study identified gaps in knowledge and practical application, suggesting the need for educational interventions with evidence-based training and interdisciplinary collaboration.