You are assessing a conscious but confused hunter who became lost in the woods on a cold day. Your assessment shows him to have an open airway, adequate breathing, and a weak radial pulse. His skin is cold to the touch and he is shivering. The EMT should recognize that the:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shivering is a natural protective mechanism by which the body attempts to create heat and maintain a normal core body temperature. This is a sign that the patient is experiencing hypothermia, which can negatively impact brain function, causing confusion and other symptoms. The weak radial pulse is also a sign of decreased blood flow due to the body's response to the cold.

You Are Assessing a Conscious but Confused Hunter Who Became