Neonatology: temperature classification: practice question

A Pediatrics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Pediatrics · Neonatology: temperature classification

Sample item

A newborn has an axillary temperature of 34.0 C. How is this classified?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Moderate hypothermia

WHO defines cold stress as 36 to 36.4 C, moderate hypothermia as 32 to 35.9 C and severe hypothermia as below 32 C. A temperature of 34 C is moderate hypothermia and requires active rewarming.

Option by option

  • A. Severe hypothermia

    Severe hypothermia is below 32 C.

  • B. Normal

    Normal axillary temperature is 36.5 to 37.5 C.

  • C. Moderate hypothermia (correct)

    Correct. 34 C falls in the 32 to 35.9 range.

  • D. Cold stress

    Cold stress is 36 to 36.4 C.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Pediatrics question

What is the answer to this Pediatrics question?

The best answer is C, Moderate hypothermia. WHO defines cold stress as 36 to 36.

Why is "Severe hypothermia" not the answer?

Severe hypothermia is below 32 C.

Why is "Normal" not the answer?

Normal axillary temperature is 36.5 to 37.5 C.

Why is "Cold stress" not the answer?

Cold stress is 36 to 36.4 C.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Neonatology: temperature classification in Pediatrics. 4 C, moderate hypothermia as 32 to 35.9 C and severe hypothermia as below 32 C. A temperature of 34 C is moderate hypothermia and requires active rewarming.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Neonatology: temperature classification?

Memorise milestones and the vaccine schedule as tables and revise them often. Then use the flashcards and the other Pediatrics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.