What physical sign is associated with severe hypothermia?

Study for the NOLS Wilderness Medicine Wilderness First Responder Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In the context of severe hypothermia, the absence of shivering and unresponsiveness is a critical indicator. Initially, individuals experiencing hypothermia may exhibit shivering as the body attempts to generate heat through muscle activity. However, as hypothermia progresses to a severe level, the body's mechanisms to maintain temperature fail, leading to muscle fatigue and an eventual cessation of shivering.

At this stage, the individual may exhibit signs of confusion, loss of coordination, and increased lethargy, leading to unresponsiveness. This condition is serious, as it signifies that the body temperature has dropped dangerously low, with interventions needing to be initiated quickly to prevent further complications, including the risk of cardiac arrest. Therefore, the physical signs of no shivering and unresponsiveness highlight the critical state of an individual suffering from severe hypothermia.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy