Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

Which of the following is a sign of heat exhaustion?

1. High body temperature

2. Profuse sweating

3. Confusion

4. Decreased heart rate

The correct answer is: Profuse sweating

Profuse sweating is a hallmark sign of heat exhaustion. During this condition, the body struggles to regulate its temperature due to excessive heat exposure or strenuous activity in hot, humid environments. The body loses significant amounts of water and electrolytes through sweating as it attempts to cool down. This sign is indicative of the body's response to heat stress. While high body temperature may be associated with more severe heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhaustion is primarily characterized by excessive sweating as the body tries to prevent the rise in body temperature. Confusion can occur but is more associated with severe heat illnesses, and a decreased heart rate is not typical for heat exhaustion; rather, increased heart rate is expected due to the body's effort to cool itself by circulating blood.