Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

In cases of low blood pressure, tachycardia, flushed warm moist skin, and wheezing, what type of shock could this indicate?

1. Cardiogenic Shock

2. Anaphylactic Shock

3. Septic Shock

4. Neurogenic Shock

The correct answer is: Anaphylactic Shock

The presence of low blood pressure, tachycardia, flushed warm moist skin, and wheezing strongly points towards anaphylactic shock. This type of shock occurs as a severe allergic reaction, leading to the release of histamines and other mediators from mast cells and basophils. These mediators cause widespread vasodilation, resulting in the hypotension or low blood pressure observed. Tachycardia often accompanies anaphylactic shock as the body tries to compensate for decreased blood volume and maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs. The flushed and warm skin is indicative of peripheral vasodilation, a physiological response to the release of these substances. Furthermore, wheezing is a common respiratory manifestation of anaphylaxis, resulting from bronchospasm and airway obstruction due to the allergenic response. Taken together, these signs and symptoms form a classic presentation of anaphylactic shock, distinguishing it from other forms of shock such as cardiogenic, septic, or neurogenic, which have different underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical presentations.