Which is a common sign of septic shock?

Which is a common sign of septic shock?

• A. Altered mental status
• B. Dilated pupils
• C. Cold, clammy skin
• D. Hypertonia

Answer: (A)

In septic shock, the body's infection-triggered inflammatory response disrupts normal perfusion, and the brain is often affected early. Altered mental status—such as confusion, agitation, or lethargy—signals reduced cerebral perfusion and is a common, concerning finding in septic shock. This change can appear even before other signs become obvious, making it a key clue for responders. Other options don’t fit as reliably. Dilated pupils aren’t a hallmark of septic shock, and hypertonia isn’t typically associated with this condition. Skin that is cold and clammy can occur with shock in general, but in septic shock skin warmth or flushing may be present early due to vasodilation, so it’s less consistent as a defining sign.

In septic shock, the body's infection-triggered inflammatory response disrupts normal perfusion, and the brain is often affected early. Altered mental status—such as confusion, agitation, or lethargy—signals reduced cerebral perfusion and is a common, concerning finding in septic shock. This change can appear even before other signs become obvious, making it a key clue for responders.

Other options don’t fit as reliably. Dilated pupils aren’t a hallmark of septic shock, and hypertonia isn’t typically associated with this condition. Skin that is cold and clammy can occur with shock in general, but in septic shock skin warmth or flushing may be present early due to vasodilation, so it’s less consistent as a defining sign.