Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Trauma Practice Test

Which of the following indicates that a patient is in decompensated shock?

1. Diaphoresis and pallor

2. Falling blood pressure

3. Restlessness and anxiety

4. Tachycardia and tachypnea

The correct answer is: Diaphoresis and pallor

Decompensated shock is the final stage of shock where the body's compensatory mechanisms can no longer maintain adequate blood flow to vital organs. Diaphoresis (profuse sweating) and pallor (pale skin) are signs that indicate the body is no longer able to maintain perfusion to peripheral tissues and is diverting blood flow to maintain vital organ perfusion. This is why diaphoresis and pallor are indicators of decompensated shock. In contrast, falling blood pressure, restlessness, anxiety, tachycardia, and tachypnea are all signs of shock but may be seen in earlier stages such as compensated or uncompensated shock. However, diaphoresis and pallor specifically point towards decompensation, making them the correct indicators in this scenario.