PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What symptom indicates poikilothermia in acute arterial occlusion?

1. Decreased limb temperature

2. Localized swelling

3. Increased body temperature

4. Elevated heart rate

The correct answer is: Decreased limb temperature

Poikilothermia is a condition where a limb's temperature matches the environmental temperature due to impaired circulation. In the context of acute arterial occlusion, where blood flow to a limb is compromised, a notable symptom is decreased limb temperature. This occurs because the affected area is not receiving adequate blood supply, which is critical for maintaining warmth. Consequently, the temperature of the limb drops, leading to the characteristic finding of poikilothermia. Localized swelling can occur in various conditions but is not specific for poikilothermia. Increased body temperature usually indicates an inflammatory or infectious process rather than a response to impaired blood flow. An elevated heart rate may be present due to stress or pain but does not specifically relate to the temperature of the limb affected by arterial occlusion. Thus, decreased limb temperature effectively identifies poikilothermia in the scenario of acute arterial occlusion.