New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What differentiates a heat stroke from other heat-related illnesses?

1. Presence of sweating

2. High body temperature

3. Rapid heart rate

4. Cool and clammy skin

The correct answer is: High body temperature

A heat stroke is characterized primarily by a high body temperature, typically exceeding 104°F (40°C), which indicates that the body's temperature regulation has failed and the body is overheating. This condition occurs when the body can no longer dissipate heat effectively due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, strenuous exercise, or a combination of both. Unlike other heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, where sweating often occurs as the body attempts to cool down, heat stroke can result in a cessation of sweating in some patients, particularly in cases related to exertion. The elevation of body temperature is a critical indicator of heat stroke severity and necessitates immediate medical intervention. Rapid heart rate can occur in various heat-related illnesses, and cool, clammy skin is more common in earlier stages such as heat exhaustion, rather than in heat stroke where skin may be hot and dry due to the body's failure to sweat properly.