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True / False

Can cause atrial fibrillation Correct

Is a core temperature of less than 34°C Correct

Is commonly associated with alcohol intoxication Correct

Can cause J waves on the ECG Correct

Is rarely seen in children as they have a higher basal metabolic rate Correct

Explanation

Hypothermia is defined as a core temperature of less than 36°C.

As the core temperature continues to fall the cardiac rhythm becomes increasingly unstable; sinus bradicardia tends to give way to atrial fibrillation followed by ventricular fibrillation and finally asystole.

In hypothermic patients, J waves are frequently seen on the ECG.

Alcohol and anaesthetic gases cause vasodilatation thus increase heat loss.

Children have a relatively large body surface area to weight ratio and even though they have a higher basal metabolic rate they are very susceptible to hypothermia.

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Average score: 87.24%

Times answered: 312