Which of the following is a common sign of hypovolemic shock?

Prepare for the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPRNE) with our comprehensive quizzes. Study with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence for the exam day!

A weak pulse is a common sign of hypovolemic shock because it indicates that the body is not able to maintain adequate circulation due to a decrease in blood volume. In hypovolemic shock, which can occur as a result of significant blood loss from trauma, dehydration, or other medical conditions, the body tries to compensate for the lack of fluid and blood. As a consequence, the heart may not be able to pump blood effectively, leading to a weak or thready pulse. This reflects decreased cardiac output and inadequate perfusion of tissues, which are critical aspects of hypovolemic shock.

In contrast, elevated blood pressure is generally not observed in this condition; instead, blood pressure often drops as blood volume diminishes. Bradycardia is an abnormally slow heartbeat that can be associated with various conditions but is typically not a feature of hypovolemic shock, where tachycardia is more common as the body attempts to compensate for the lowered volume. Excessive sweating may occur in various stress states, but it is not specifically a hallmark of hypovolemic shock; rather, it's often a response to other factors like pain or anxiety. This underscores the importance of recognizing vital signs such as heart rate and pulse quality in identifying

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy