Question

A 30-year-old male brought to the emergency department has the following admission data: Blood pressure 50/30, pulse 100, respiratory rate 12, temperature 101°F. The nurse does not know the exact cause but does know that patient is in shock because of which of the following readings?

a) Elevated temperature
b) Slow respiratory rate
c) Elevated pulse rate
d) Low blood pressure

Answer 1

The patient's low blood pressure of 50/30 mm Hg is the key indication that they are in shock. This, coupled with a rapid pulse rate, suggests impaired circulatory function, most likely hypovolemic shock. Immediate medical intervention is required.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient in question presents with significant clinical symptoms that are suggestive of shock. The key indicator here is the reading of a low blood pressure of 50/30 mm Hg. This finding, combined with the elevated pulse rate (tachycardia), indicates that the patient's circulatory system is struggling to maintain adequate blood flow and thus oxygen delivery to tissues. While the elevated temperature may suggest an infectious cause, and the slow respiratory rate could be due to various factors, it is the low blood pressure that is most characteristic of circulatory shock, especially hypovolemic shock.

Patients in shock may exhibit a range of symptoms and signs, including a rapid, weak pulse, cool, clammy skin, hypothermia, thirst, and dry mouth. Based on this clinical presentation, interventions would typically involve prompt fluid resuscitation and possibly vasoactive medications to restore adequate circulation and blood pressure.