Moderate hypothermia is defined by which signs?

• A. Shivering, Alert
• B. Hot Dry Skin, Altered Mental Status
• C. Altered LOC, Slowed Vitals
• D. Unconscious, Bradycardia

Answer: (C)

Moderate hypothermia is characterized by CNS depression and slower physiological processes as the core temperature falls. When the body enters this stage, the person’s level of consciousness becomes Altered (confusion, drowsiness, or lethargy) and vital signs slow down (bradycardia, slowed respiration). Shivering, which helps generate heat, is more typical of mild hypothermia and can diminish as cold deepens, so the presence of altered mental status with slowed vitals best fits the moderate range. Hot, dry skin points away from hypothermia and suggests hyperthermia, while unconsciousness with very slow vitals suggests severe hypothermia, not moderate.