AEMCA Practice Exam

What occurs in septic shock states?

1. The body constricts blood vessels

2. The body vasodilates, causing low blood pressure

3. The body accumulates excess fluid

4. The body increases heart rate

The correct answer is: The body vasodilates, causing low blood pressure

In septic shock states, the primary characteristic is systemic vasodilation, which leads to a significant drop in blood pressure. This occurs as a response to sepsis, an overwhelming immune response to infection that can lead to widespread inflammation. The inflammatory mediators released during sepsis cause blood vessels to relax and widen, contributing to reduced peripheral vascular resistance. As a result, the heart struggles to maintain adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs, leading to the low blood pressure associated with septic shock. While other responses, such as fluid accumulation or an increase in heart rate, may be present as compensatory mechanisms, the hallmark of septic shock is indeed the vasodilation and resultant hypotension. This critical understanding of the physiological changes during septic shock is important for recognizing and treating this severe condition effectively.