Multisystem: Shock, Sepsis and Metabolic Syndromes · USMLE Step 1

A patient with hypovolemic shock from trauma has cool, clammy skin. Which compensatory mechanism is responsible?

  1. Decreased sympathetic activity
  2. Increased parasympathetic tone
  3. Peripheral vasoconstriction
  4. Histamine release
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Peripheral vasoconstriction

Hypovolemic shock triggers sympathetic activation causing peripheral vasoconstriction. This shunts blood to vital organs and causes cool, clammy skin.

Difficulty: Medium Question 2 of 19

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