Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

What temperature is most likely to be fatal?

1. 99.5 F

2. 103.8 F

3. 105.0 F

4. 98.6 F

The correct answer is: 105.0 F

A body temperature of 105.0 F is considered potentially fatal, as it indicates a higher level of fever, often referred to as hyperpyrexia. At this elevated temperature, the body can experience severe metabolic disturbances and significant stress on the cardiovascular system. Such extreme temperatures can lead to complications like heatstroke, organ failure, or even death if not addressed promptly. In contrast, temperatures like 98.6 F, which is considered the normal body temperature, and 99.5 F and 103.8 F, which represent low-grade fevers, are typically not life-threatening. While 103.8 F indicates a significant fever that may require medical attention, it doesn't carry the same immediate risks as hyperpyrexia. Understanding these temperature thresholds is crucial for recognizing medical emergencies in patient care.