Chapter 10 - Shock

Question 1

A 19-year-old man was stung multiple times by fire ants. He is experiencing obvious signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock. You administer 100% oxygen and give him epinephrine via subcutaneous injection. Upon reassessment, you determine that his condition has not improved. You should:
Select one:
A. repeat the epinephrine injection after consulting with medical control.
B. request a paramedic unit that is stationed approximately 15 miles away.
C. transport him immediately and provide supportive care while en route.
D. consider that he may actually be experiencing an acute asthma attack.

Answer 1

A. repeat the epinephrine injection after consulting with medical control.

Question 2

A 56-year-old man is found semiconscious by his wife. Your assessment reveals that his respirations are rapid and shallow, his pulse is rapid and irregular, and his blood pressure is low. The patient's wife states that he complained of left arm pain and nausea the day before, but would not allow her to call 9-1-1. The MOST likely cause of this patient's present condition is:
Select one:
A. cardiogenic hypoperfusion.
B. severe septic hypoperfusion. 
C. a ruptured aortic aneurysm.
D. acute myocardial infarction. .

Answer 2

A. cardiogenic hypoperfusion.

Question 3

A 70-year-old woman was recently discharged from the hospital following a total hip replacement. Today, she presents with restlessness, tachycardia, and a blood pressure of 100/64 mm Hg. Her skin is warm and moist. You should be MOST suspicious that she is experiencing:
Select one:
A. decompensated shock.
B. septic shock.
C. a local infection.
D. pump failure.

Answer 3

B. septic shock.

Question 4

Clinical signs of compensated shock include all of the following, EXCEPT:
Select one:
A. absent peripheral pulses.
B. rapid, shallow breathing.
C. cool and clammy skin.
D. restlessness or anxiety.

Answer 4

A. absent peripheral pulses.

Question 5

In an acute injury setting, neurogenic shock is commonly accompanied by:
Select one:
A. diaphoresis. Incorrect
B. hypovolemia.
C. tachycardia.
D. hypothermia.

Answer 5

D. hypothermia.

Question 6

In infants and children, a capillary refill time (CRT) of greater than \_\_\_\_\_\_ second(s) is a sign of poor peripheral perfusion.
Select one:
A. 2
B. 1
C. 4
D. 3

Answer 6

A. 2

Question 7

When the body senses a state of hypoperfusion, the sympathetic nervous system releases epinephrine, the effects of which include:
Select one:
A. tachycardia.
B. tachypnea.
C. vasodilation.
D. restlessness.

Answer 7

A. tachycardia.

Question 8

Which of the following injuries would MOST likely cause obstructive shock?
Select one:
A. simple pneumothorax
B. cardiac tamponade
C. liver laceration
D. spinal cord injury

Answer 8

B. cardiac tamponade

Question 9

Which of the following MOST accurately describes septic shock?
Select one:
A. bacterial infection of the nervous system with widespread vasodilation
B. viral infection of the blood vessels, vascular damage, and vasoconstriction
C. bacterial damage to the vessel wall, leaking blood vessels, and vasodilation
D. widespread vasoconstriction and plasma loss due to a severe viral infection

Answer 9

C. bacterial damage to the vessel wall, leaking blood vessels, and vasodilation