A young male who was angry with friends wandered away from a party and spent the night outside uncovered in 40 to 50 degree temperatures. He is confused, has decreased but adequate breathing, and a weak radial pulse. His skin is cool and capillary refill delayed. When looking to see if he is shivering, you note that he is not. Based on this presentation, which one of the following can the EMT safely conclude?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's presentation of decreased but adequate breathing, weak radial pulse, cool skin, delayed capillary refill, and confusion are consistent with hypothermia. The absence of shivering suggests that the body temperature has dropped to a dangerous level and shivering is no longer an effective means of conserving heat. The EMT should be concerned about the potential for severe hypothermia and take appropriate measures to prevent further heat loss and provide active rewarming. The cause of the patient's confusion cannot be definitively determined without further assessment.

A Young Male Who Was Angry with Friends Wandered Away