Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) AMCA Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Patient Care Technician Certification with comprehensive quizzes. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions to study effectively, with hints and detailed explanations for each question. Achieve your exam success with confidence!

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What are the signs of shock?

Rapid heartbeat and elevated temperature
Weak rapid pulse; cool, pale, moist skin
High blood pressure and sweating
Burning sensation in the limbs

The correct answer is: Weak rapid pulse; cool, pale, moist skin

Weak rapid pulse; cool, pale, moist skin are key indicators of shock, a critical condition where the body's organs do not receive adequate blood flow. A weak and rapid pulse indicates that the heart is working hard to maintain circulation and compensate for the drop in blood pressure, which can occur in shock due to various reasons such as blood loss, dehydration, or severe infection. The skin presents as cool, pale, and moist because blood vessels constrict to redirect blood flow to vital organs, while the extremities may not receive sufficient circulation, leading to the cool and pale appearance. Moreover, moisture on the skin is often due to increased perspiration as the body tries to cope with distress. The other options do not accurately represent the signs of shock. Rapid heartbeat and elevated temperature might suggest other conditions but are not definitive signs of shock. High blood pressure could occur in early stages of shock or other conditions, making it misleading. A burning sensation in the limbs is not associated with shock and may indicate a different issue altogether. Recognizing the specific signs of shock is essential for timely intervention and treatment.