Which sign is characteristic of severe hypothermia?

• A. Hyperthermia
• B. Hyperreflexia
• C. Raspy voice
• D. Dry, waxy skin

Answer: (D)

In severe hypothermia, the body's cooling progresses to the point where the skin becomes cold, dry, and waxy in appearance. This waxy, dry skin is a hallmark sign because peripheral circulation and moisture are reduced as the body slows down its metabolism and blood flow to the skin. Shivering often diminishes or stops, and mental status can be greatly depressed, but the skin’s waxy, desiccated look is particularly characteristic of advanced cooling.

The other possibilities don’t fit as well. Overheating would be the opposite of hypothermia. A sharply increased reflex response isn’t a typical feature when the CNS is chilled and depressed, and a raspy voice isn’t a defining sign of severe cold exposure.