New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

Which of the following signs and symptoms indicates a patient is in hypoperfusion (shock)?

1. Rapid weak pulse and fever

2. Pale, cool, clammy skin and rapid weak pulse

3. High blood pressure and bradycardia

4. Dry skin and slow breathing

The correct answer is: Pale, cool, clammy skin and rapid weak pulse

A patient experiencing hypoperfusion, or shock, will typically demonstrate specific signs and symptoms related to inadequate circulation and perfusion of blood to the body's tissues. The presence of pale, cool, clammy skin indicates that the blood vessel constriction is diverting blood flow away from the skin's surface, a common physiological response to maintain vital organ function during shock. This skin appearance also reflects a lack of adequate blood volume or pressure. Additionally, a rapid weak pulse is characteristic of the body's attempt to compensate for decreased perfusion. When shock occurs, the heart often beats faster in an effort to maintain blood flow to essential organs; however, the pulse may feel weak due to the diminished stroke volume and overall cardiovascular instability. This combination of symptoms—pale, cool, clammy skin and a rapid weak pulse—effectively highlights the body's response to a state of shock. In contrast, signs like high blood pressure and bradycardia, or symptoms like rapid strong pulses accompanied by fever or dry skin with slow breathing, may suggest different medical scenarios that do not align with the typical presentation of shock.