CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

What are two signs of hypothermia?

1. Increased heart rate and shivering

2. Loss of mental acuity and slurred speech

3. High body temperature and nausea

4. Extreme fatigue and hypersensitivity

The correct answer is: Loss of mental acuity and slurred speech

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. The signs and symptoms of hypothermia are critical for timely recognition and intervention. Among these, the loss of mental acuity and slurred speech are significant indicators. As the body temperature drops, cognitive functions can be impaired due to the brain's sensitivity to cold. Individuals may exhibit confusion or difficulty concentrating, resulting in a notable decline in mental clarity. Slurred speech is also a common symptom, as the muscles controlling speech can become affected by the low temperature, mirroring signs typically associated with intoxication or other neurological impairments. These symptoms are particularly alarming because they may lead not only to poor decision-making but also to an inability to recognize the severity of one's condition. Recognizing these signs early on can be critical in administering the right treatment to prevent further deterioration of the individual's condition. The other options present symptoms that do not accurately reflect the signs of hypothermia. Increased heart rate and shivering can occur in response to cold but are not definitive signs of hypothermia itself. High body temperature is contradictory to hypothermia, while extreme fatigue and hypersensitivity are more ambiguous and not primary indicators of this condition.