Hypothermia and Cold Injuries (Assessment & Diagnosis) — 68yo Man | Endocrinology | MCCQE1 Q#13245
MCCQE1 Question #13245
Dimension of Care
Acute Care
Activity
Assessment & Diagnosis
Objective
Hypothermia and Cold Injuries
Section
Medicine / Family Medicine
Subject
Endocrinology
Last updated: February 2026
A 68-year-old man is brought to the ED in March after being found outdoors overnight. He is confused and shivering intermittently. He has a history of alcohol use disorder and lives alone. On exam, his skin is cold to touch and his speech is slurred.
Vital signs:
- T: 31.8 °C (core, esophageal)
- BP: 94/58 mmHg
- HR: 42 /min
- RR: 10 /min
- SpO2: 96% (RA)
An ECG shows sinus bradycardia with prominent J (Osborn) waves. After initial stabilization and active rewarming are started, the team considers additional investigations for underlying contributors.
Which test is most appropriate to evaluate a reversible endocrine cause that can predispose to hypothermia?
Full answer analysis and choices are available inside the practice session.
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