What clinical manifestation distinguishes or separates neurogenic shock from other forms of shock?
Hypotension
Change in mental status
Bradycardia
Warm, edematous skin
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is a common feature in all types of shock, including hypovolemic, cardiogenic, and septic shock. It is not specific to neurogenic shock and therefore does not help in distinguishing it from other forms of shock.
Choice B reason:
A change in mental status, such as confusion or decreased consciousness, can occur in many types of shock due to decreased cerebral perfusion. This symptom is not unique to neurogenic shock and can be seen in hypovolemic, cardiogenic, and septic shock as well.
Choice C reason:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is a hallmark of neurogenic shock. This occurs due to disruption of the sympathetic nervous system, which normally maintains a higher heart rate through sympathetic stimulation. In neurogenic shock, the loss of sympathetic tone leads to unopposed parasympathetic activity, resulting in bradycardia. This is in contrast to other forms of shock, which typically present with tachycardia.
Choice D reason:
Warm, edematous skin is not typically associated with neurogenic shock. This symptom may be more relevant in septic shock, where widespread vasodilation can lead to warm skin. However, it is not specific enough to distinguish neurogenic shock from other types of shock.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Anorexia and nausea are common symptoms in many illnesses, including septic shock, but they are not specific late signs. These symptoms can occur early in the disease process and are not definitive indicators of the severity of the condition.
Choice B reason:
Generalized malaise, a feeling of overall discomfort and fatigue, is a nonspecific symptom that can occur in many conditions, including septic shock. It is not a specific late sign and can be present at various stages of the illness.
Choice C reason:
Slowed, shallow respirations can be a sign of respiratory failure, which can occur in severe sepsis or septic shock. However, it is not a specific late sign of septic shock itself. Respiratory patterns can vary depending on the underlying cause and progression of the shock.
Choice D reason:
Decreased temperature, or hypothermia, is a late sign of septic shock. As the body’s compensatory mechanisms fail, the ability to maintain normal body temperature is impaired. This can result in hypothermia, indicating severe and advanced septic shock. The body's metabolic processes slow down, and the overall prognosis becomes poorer as hypothermia sets in.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cool, moist skin. Cool, moist skin is an early sign of shock as the body redirects blood flow away from the skin to vital organs. This is part of the body's compensatory mechanisms to maintain perfusion.
Choice B reason: Increased bowel sounds. Bowel sounds typically decrease during shock due to reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract. Increased bowel sounds would not be expected.
Choice C reason: Restlessness. Restlessness is an early sign of shock indicating reduced oxygen delivery to the brain. The body responds by becoming more alert and anxious, reflecting increased sympathetic nervous system activity.
Choice D reason: Increased respiratory rate. An increased respiratory rate is a compensatory mechanism to improve oxygenation and reduce carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This is common in the early stages of shock.
Choice E reason: Decreased blood glucose. Blood glucose levels are generally not an immediate indicator in the early stages of shock. The body's stress response can actually increase blood glucose levels initially.
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