PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

If a diver is shivering uncontrollably and has impaired muscle coordination, what condition do they likely have?

1. Heat exhaustion

2. Severe hypothermia

3. Mild hypothermia

4. Normal body temperature

The correct answer is: Mild hypothermia

The correct answer indicates that the diver is likely experiencing mild hypothermia if they are shivering uncontrollably and have impaired muscle coordination. Shivering is a natural response of the body to generate heat when it is losing warmth. As the body's temperature drops, shivering begins as a compensatory mechanism to help re-warm itself. Mild hypothermia typically occurs when a person's core body temperature drops to a level just below normal, usually between 32°C and 35°C (90°F and 95°F). At this stage, the individual may exhibit signs like shivering, feeling cold, and reduced motor skills, which can manifest as impaired muscle coordination. It is crucial to recognize this stage as it can escalate if not addressed promptly. In contrast, severe hypothermia would present with more critical symptoms such as a lack of shivering, confusion, extreme weakness, or even unconsciousness, indicating that the body is no longer able to generate sufficient heat. Heat exhaustion primarily is related to overheating and dehydration and doesn’t typically involve shivering, while normal body temperature would mean the diver is not exhibiting any of these symptoms. Understanding these distinctions is essential for appropriate assessment and response in diving scenarios.