PADI Divemaster Certification Practice Exam

What symptoms might a diver exhibiting a hot and flushed skin, who has stopped perspiring, be experiencing?

1. Hypothermia

2. Heat stroke

3. Dehydration

4. Exhaustion

The correct answer is: Heat stroke

A diver exhibiting hot and flushed skin who has stopped perspiring is likely experiencing heat stroke. Heat stroke is a severe condition that can occur when an individual becomes overheated, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, strenuous activity, or dehydration, particularly in a diving environment where physical exertion is involved. The primary symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, hot and dry skin, confusion, and altered mental state. The cessation of sweating is particularly significant, as it indicates the body's mechanisms for cooling itself are failing. This is a critical situation; without immediate medical intervention, heat stroke can lead to serious complications or death. Understanding this condition helps in recognizing the urgency of a diver's situation. It's essential for divers and dive leaders to monitor for signs of heat-related illnesses and take preventive measures such as staying hydrated and maintaining proper body temperature.