ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which of the following are symptoms of shock?

1. Pallor and weakness only

2. Pallor and increased pulse only

3. Pallor, increased pulse, and fever only

4. Pallor, increased pulse, and fever, and weakness

The correct answer is: Pallor, increased pulse, and fever only

When discussing the symptoms of shock, it’s important to understand that shock is a critical condition that results from insufficient blood flow to the organs and tissues. This can lead to a cascade of physiological responses as the body tries to maintain perfusion and oxygen delivery. Pallor, increased pulse, and fever are significant indicators of shock. Pallor occurs due to vasoconstriction and decreased blood flow to the skin, resulting in a pale appearance. An increased pulse is a compensatory mechanism as the body attempts to maintain cardiac output and ensure that vital organs receive adequate blood supply. Fever may also present as part of the body's systemic response to an underlying cause, such as infection, which can lead to septic shock. Including weakness as a symptom provides a more complete picture of what a person in shock might experience. Weakness can stem from the overall reduction in blood flow and oxygen to the muscles and can manifest as tiredness or an inability to maintain physical activity. Thus, the presence of pallor, increased pulse, fever, and weakness offers a comprehensive view of the symptoms of shock, highlighting the organism’s adaptive responses to a critical situation. This is why D is the most complete answer in relation to the symptoms of shock.