Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is an early sign of any type of shock?

1. Increased blood pressure

2. Altered mental status

3. Decreased heart rate

4. Stable respiration

The correct answer is: Altered mental status

Altered mental status is indeed recognized as an early sign of shock in a patient. When the body is undergoing shock, it can lead to inadequate perfusion of organs and tissues, including the brain. As a result, the brain may not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients, prompting changes in mental status. This may manifest as confusion, restlessness, anxiety, or even lethargy, depending on the severity of the shock and the patient's condition. In contrast, increased blood pressure usually indicates a compensatory response where the body attempts to maintain adequate circulation, while decreased heart rate is not typically associated with early shock, as the heart usually compensates by increasing its rate in response to hypotension. Stable respiration does not present a clear indication of shock and is not a sign that would suggest the body is unable to maintain adequate perfusion or is beginning to fail in its compensatory mechanisms. Thus, altered mental status serves as a critical warning sign that a patient may be experiencing shock, making it important for healthcare providers to recognize and act promptly.