A core body temperature over 102 F indicates heat exhaustion; over 104 F indicates heat stroke. Which option correctly reflects this statement?

• A. Heat stroke
• B. Dehydration
• C. Heat exhaustion
• D. Hyponatremia

Answer: (C)

Recognizing heat illness by temperature thresholds is what this item tests. About 102 F marks heat exhaustion—a overheating state where the body can still cool itself but is overwhelmed. When temperature reaches around 104 F or higher, heat stroke can occur, which is a more severe, medical emergency often with altered mental status. The statement pairs 102 F with heat exhaustion and 104 F with heat stroke, so the option that matches the 102 F description is heat exhaustion. Dehydration and hyponatremia are related concerns but aren’t defined by a specific temperature threshold, and heat stroke corresponds to the higher 104 F level rather than the 102 F description.