Which compensatory mechanism is typically activated in early shock?

• A. Peripheral vasodilation
• B. Hypotension
• C. Tachycardia
• D. Decrease in respiratory rate

Answer: (C)

In early shock the body mounts a sympathetic fight‑or‑flight response to preserve perfusion, so the heart starts beating faster. This rapid heart rate increases cardiac output (CO = heart rate × stroke volume) and helps maintain mean arterial pressure despite imperfect preload. At the same time, vasoconstriction helps redirect blood toward vital organs like the brain and heart. Among the options, a faster heart rate best fits the initial compensatory adjustment to shock. Peripheral vasodilation would lower blood pressure rather than support it, hypotension is a consequence rather than a mechanism, and a decrease in respiratory rate isn’t typical in early shock—respiration usually increases to compensate for metabolic acidosis and hypoxia.