Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What is one conséquence of elevated body temperature?

1. Increased respiration rate

2. Dehydration of the skin

3. Reduced heart rate

4. Increased blood pressure

The correct answer is: Increased respiration rate

An elevated body temperature can lead to an increased respiration rate. When the body temperature rises, the metabolic processes within the body accelerate, which often causes the body to require more oxygen. To meet this increased demand for oxygen, the respiratory system responds by increasing the rate and depth of breathing. This response helps facilitate the exchange of gases, ensuring that sufficient oxygen is delivered to the tissues while aiding in the removal of carbon dioxide. Additionally, increased respiration can also help in cooling the body as the body attempts to regulate its temperature. The other options do not accurately reflect typical physiological responses to elevated body temperature. Dehydration of the skin may occur eventually due to sweating, but it is not a direct consequence of a raised temperature. A reduced heart rate would be contrary to the physiological response, as heart rate often increases to help pump blood more efficiently to dissipate heat. Increased blood pressure can occur, but it is not as universally observed as the increase in respiration rate that accompanies elevated body temperature.