Which term describes a temperature below normal?

• A. Hyperthermia
• B. Hypothermia
• C. Fever
• D. Pyrexia

Answer: (B)

Hypothermia is a temperature below normal. It happens when the body's heat loss exceeds its production, causing the core temperature to fall below about 95°F (35°C). It can result from cold exposure, immersion in cold water, certain medical conditions, aging, malnutrition, or anesthesia. Early signs include shivering, cool pale skin, confusion, and slowed movements; as it progresses, heart rate and breathing may slow, and the person may become lethargic or unconscious. Management involves safe rewarming, removing wet or cold exposure, providing warm blankets, and monitoring vital signs and core temperature. The other terms describe higher-than-normal temperatures: hyperthermia refers to elevated temperature due to external heat or excessive heat production, and fever (pyrexia) indicates an elevated temperature from infection or illness.