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

Which signs and symptoms are most indicative of exertional heat stroke?

1. Body core temperature between 97-104 degrees Fahrenheit

2. Body core temperature greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit

3. Cool and clammy skin

4. Disorientation

The correct answer is: Body core temperature greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit

Exertional heat stroke is characterized by an elevated body core temperature, specifically greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature indicates a critical state where the body is unable to regulate its heat effectively during intense physical activity. Accompanying symptoms often include confusion, agitation, and disorientation, as the body's central nervous system begins to suffer from the effects of hyperthermia. Recognizing a core temperature beyond this threshold is essential for prompt identification and management, as it can lead to severe complications or even fatality if left untreated. In this context, options like body temperature between 97-104 degrees Fahrenheit, cool and clammy skin, and disorientation do not provide the specific indicators necessary for diagnosing exertional heat stroke effectively. Instead, they either reflect normal or less severe heat illness states, underscoring why body core temperature greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit is the most accurate indicator in this scenario.