A drop in body temperature during prolonged exposure to cold is called

Get ready for the BPA Medical Office Procedures Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Ensure your success!

The term that describes a drop in body temperature during prolonged exposure to cold is hypothermia. This condition occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a significant decrease in core body temperature, typically below 95°F (35°C). Symptoms of hypothermia can include shivering, confusion, fatigue, and lack of coordination. It is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent severe outcomes such as organ failure or death.

Heatstroke, in contrast, is related to an extreme rise in body temperature due to excessive heat exposure. Shock refers to a state of insufficient blood flow to the organs, which can stem from various causes, but it is not specifically linked to temperature changes from cold exposure. Sunsroke is also a heat-related condition caused by chronic exposure to the sun, resulting in symptoms similar to heatstroke but does not pertain to cold exposure at all. Thus, hypothermia is the correct term for the scenario described.

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