Which factor is NOT a predisposing factor in hypothermia?

Which factor is NOT a predisposing factor in hypothermia?

• A. Sex of the patient
• B. Age
• C. Alcohol use
• D. Immersion in cold water

Answer: (A)

Predisposing factors for hypothermia are elements that either reduce heat production or increase heat loss. Age extremes are a risk because infants and older adults have less effective thermoregulation and insulation. Alcohol use increases heat loss and impairs shivering and judgment, making it harder for the body to conserve or generate heat. Immersion in cold water greatly accelerates heat loss since water conducts heat away from the body much more rapidly than air. Sex of the patient, however, does not inherently raise the risk of hypothermia, so it is not considered a predisposing factor.

Predisposing factors for hypothermia are elements that either reduce heat production or increase heat loss. Age extremes are a risk because infants and older adults have less effective thermoregulation and insulation. Alcohol use increases heat loss and impairs shivering and judgment, making it harder for the body to conserve or generate heat. Immersion in cold water greatly accelerates heat loss since water conducts heat away from the body much more rapidly than air. Sex of the patient, however, does not inherently raise the risk of hypothermia, so it is not considered a predisposing factor.