A 57-year-old-man is being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of possible septic shock He has a normal blood pressure, increased heart rate, decreased bowel sounds, and his skin is cold and clammy
The ICU nurse suspects the patient:
A) Is in the compensatory stage of shock
B) Is in the progressive stage of shock
C) Will stabilize and be released by tomorrow
D) Is in the irreversible stage of shock
Ans: A
Feedback: In the compensatory stage of shock, the blood pressure remains within normal limits. Vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and increased contractility of the heart contribute to maintaining adequate cardiac output. Patients display the often-described "fight or flight" response. The body shunts blood from organs such as the skin, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract to the brain and heart to ensure adequate blood supply to these vital organs. As a result, the skin is cool and clammy and the bowel sounds are hypoactive. Option B is incorrect; in progressive shock, the blood pressure drops. Option C is incorrect; in septic shock, the patient's chance of survival is low and will certainly not be released within 24 hours. Option D is incorrect; if the patient was in the irreversible stage of shock, his blood pressure would be very low and his organs would be failing.
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