Which is a potential late outcome of hypothermia?

Which is a potential late outcome of hypothermia?

• A. Loss of consciousness
• B. Rapid heartbeat
• C. Increased energy
• D. Normal skin color

Answer: (A)

When the body cools in hypothermia, the brain becomes increasingly depressed. This progressive decline in CNS function is why loss of consciousness can occur as a late outcome. Early in hypothermia the body tries to generate heat, so things like shivering and a faster heart rate are common. As cooling continues, shivering stops and mental status deteriorates, leading to lethargy and eventual loss of consciousness. The other options don’t fit as late signs: rapid heartbeat is more typical early as a compensatory response; increased energy doesn’t occur with cooling; and normal skin color is unlikely because skin becomes pale or bluish due to reduced perfusion from vasoconstriction.

When the body cools in hypothermia, the brain becomes increasingly depressed. This progressive decline in CNS function is why loss of consciousness can occur as a late outcome. Early in hypothermia the body tries to generate heat, so things like shivering and a faster heart rate are common. As cooling continues, shivering stops and mental status deteriorates, leading to lethargy and eventual loss of consciousness. The other options don’t fit as late signs: rapid heartbeat is more typical early as a compensatory response; increased energy doesn’t occur with cooling; and normal skin color is unlikely because skin becomes pale or bluish due to reduced perfusion from vasoconstriction.