What is a late sign of shock?

Decreased blood pressure is a late sign of shock because it indicates that the body's compensatory mechanisms have begun to fail. In the early stages of shock, the body tries to maintain blood flow to vital organs, resulting in compensatory responses such as increased heart rate and normal or elevated blood pressure. As shock progresses, especially in cases such as hypovolemic or cardiogenic shock, the lack of adequate perfusion leads to a drop in blood pressure. This decrease signifies that the body's attempt to maintain circulation is no longer effective, reflecting a critical state that can lead to organ failure if not addressed promptly. Recognizing decreased blood pressure as a late sign is essential for EMTs, as it helps them assess the severity of a patient's condition and guide their interventions accordingly.