Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature less than what degree Fahrenheit?

Hypothermia is clinically defined as a core body temperature that falls below 95°F (35°C). In the context of the answer options provided, 36°F is the closest temperature representative of mild hypothermia, just above the threshold for clinical recognition of this condition. Once the core temperature drops below 95°F, the body's temperature regulation becomes severely impaired, leading to potential life-threatening conditions.

It's important to understand that the other temperatures listed are indicative of more severe hypothermia stages. For example, a core temperature of 32°F suggests moderate hypothermia, while temperatures of 30°F and 28°F would indicate advanced or profound hypothermia, which is more critical and potentially fatal without prompt medical intervention. Therefore, 36°F serves as an appropriate point of distinction to mark the onset of hypothermia and aligns with clinical standards for defining this life-threatening condition.