Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Trauma Practice Test

Which of the following is MOST indicative of compensated shock in an adult?

1. confusion, mottling, tachycardia, BP of 88/60 mm Hg

2. restless, diaphoresis, tachypnea, BP of 104/64 mm Hg

3. unresponsive, pallor, absent radial pulses, tachypnea

4. weak carotid pulse, cool skin, increased respiratory rate

The correct answer is: restless, diaphoresis, tachypnea, BP of 104/64 mm Hg

Compensated shock in adults often presents with early signs such as restlessness, diaphoresis (sweating), tachypnea (rapid breathing), and a slightly low blood pressure. In this scenario, the blood pressure of 104/64 mm Hg along with the other signs listed are indicative of the body's attempts to maintain perfusion to vital organs despite reduced blood volume or poor circulation. Option A includes confusion and mottling, which are more severe signs seen in decompensated shock. Option C presents with unresponsiveness, absent pulses, and tachypnea, which are signs of late-stage shock. Option D lists weak carotid pulse, cool skin, and increased respiratory rate, which are also signs of shock but not as indicative of compensated shock as the signs listed in option B.