What defines hypothermia?

• A. An increase in core body temperature
• B. A decrease in core body temperature
• C. Localized burn injury
• D. Increase in metabolic rate

Answer: (B)

Hypothermia is a condition defined by a drop in the body's core temperature below normal levels, typically when it falls below 95°F (35°C). Core temperature reflects the heat inside the body's chest and abdomen, not just the skin, so it best indicates risk to organs and function. When heat loss to the environment outpaces heat production, the core temperature decreases, leading to impaired thinking, slowed movements, and potentially organ failure if it continues.

This differs from the other scenarios: an increase in core temperature describes hyperthermia, not hypothermia; a localized burn injures skin tissue without necessarily changing core temperature; and an increase in metabolic rate would raise heat production rather than define a lower-than-normal core temperature.