NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

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

1. High blood pressure

2. Tachycardia

3. Fever

4. Severe headache

The correct answer is: Tachycardia

Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common sign of hypovolemic shock. This condition arises when there is a significant loss of blood volume, which can occur due to hemorrhage or severe dehydration. In an attempt to maintain adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs despite the reduced circulating volume, the body compensates by increasing the heart rate. This compensatory mechanism helps to uphold cardiac output in the face of diminished blood volume. Other signs of hypovolemic shock may include hypotension (low blood pressure), cool and clammy skin, and altered mental status due to inadequate perfusion. The emphasis on tachycardia is crucial: it indicates that the body is working harder to compensate for the diminished blood volume and maintain homeostasis. In contrast, options like high blood pressure would not typically be associated with hypovolemic shock, as the reduction in blood volume usually leads to hypotension. Fever is more characteristic of infectious processes rather than shock states caused by volume loss, and a severe headache can be associated with various conditions but is not a defining feature of hypovolemic shock. Understanding these nuances helps in recognizing the signs and appropriately managing a patient in a state of hypovolemic