Which of the following indicates hypothermia?

Hypothermia is defined as a condition where the body's core temperature drops below the normal range, specifically below 35°C (95°F). This significant drop in temperature can impair bodily functions and lead to serious health issues. The core body temperature is crucial because it reflects the body's ability to maintain its metabolic processes. When the core temperature falls below this threshold, it indicates that the body's thermoregulatory mechanisms are overwhelmed and unable to generate sufficient heat, leading to a state of hypothermia.

Shivering and numbness are indeed common early signs of hypothermia, as these are the body’s initial responses to cold conditions to generate heat. However, they are not definitive indicators of hypothermia itself, since they might occur in other cold-related situations without necessarily resulting in a dangerous drop in core temperature.

An elevated heart rate is typically associated with a cold environment, but it does not specifically indicate hypothermia. In fact, as hypothermia progresses, the heart rate may actually decrease due to reduced metabolic function. Flushed skin is more commonly associated with hyperthermia or other conditions and does not indicate any form of hypothermia.

In summary, the correct answer clearly reflects the critical measurement of body temperature essential for diagnosing hyp