Canadian Boating Exam Practice Quiz

Which symptom indicates the final stages of hypothermia?

1. Rapid pulse

2. Lack of consciousness

3. High energy levels

4. Excessive sweating

The correct answer is: Lack of consciousness

Hypothermia is a serious medical condition where the body's core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia generally progress from mild to severe as the body temperature continues to decrease. In the final stages of hypothermia, the body's vital organs are shutting down and the body is no longer able to regulate its temperature. This leads to a lack of consciousness, which is a clear indication that the individual's condition is critical. Rapid pulse and high energy levels may occur in the early stages of hypothermia, but as the condition worsens, the body's functions slow down, resulting in a decreased pulse and loss of consciousness. Excessive sweating is not a symptom of hypothermia, as the body is usually unable to produce sweat in such a low temperature environment.