Which is a key indicator for hypothermia?

Cold and pale skin is a key indicator for hypothermia because this condition occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a drop in core body temperature. As body temperature decreases, blood vessels constrict in an effort to preserve heat, which can result in the skin feeling cold and appearing pale. This physiological response is a critical sign that medical personnel look for when assessing someone for hypothermia.

In contrast, excessive sweating is typically associated with conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, not hypothermia. A rapid pulse may indicate a host of issues but is not a definitive sign of hypothermia; it could actually be an early sign of the body's stress response to cold. Lastly, a high body temperature contradicts the fundamental nature of hypothermia, which by definition involves a significant decrease in body temperature. Understanding these physiological signs is vital for effectively identifying and managing hypothermia in a first aid scenario.