Which of the following best distinguishes the clinical presentation of distributive shock from hypovolemic shock?

• A. Hypovolemic shock often presents with high cardiac output, while distributive shock presents with low cardiac output.
• B. Distributive shock is characterized by increased blood volume, whereas hypovolemic shock is caused by decreased blood volume.
• C. Both distributive and hypovolemic shock present with bradycardia and hypertension.
• D. Distributive shock typically presents with warm, flushed skin due to vasodilation, while hypovolemic shock presents with cool, clammy skin due to vasoconstriction.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of distributive shock and hypovolemic shock. Distributive shock occurs due to abnormal distribution of blood flow in the smallest blood vessels, often caused by vasodilation. Hypovolemic shock, on the other hand, results from a significant loss of blood or fluid volume, leading to inadequate perfusion of tissues.
2. Recognize the physiological differences between the two types of shock. In distributive shock, vasodilation leads to a pooling of blood in the periphery, which can result in warm, flushed skin. In hypovolemic shock, the body compensates for fluid loss by vasoconstriction, which redirects blood to vital organs, causing the skin to feel cool and clammy.
3. Consider the clinical signs and symptoms. Distributive shock often presents with warm, flushed skin due to the vasodilation of peripheral blood vessels. In contrast, hypovolemic shock typically presents with cool, clammy skin as a result of vasoconstriction and reduced peripheral blood flow.
4. Evaluate the options provided in the question. Eliminate choices that are inconsistent with the physiological mechanisms of these types of shock. For example, hypovolemic shock does not present with high cardiac output, and distributive shock is not characterized by increased blood volume.
5. Select the correct answer based on the distinguishing feature: Distributive shock typically presents with warm, flushed skin due to vasodilation, while hypovolemic shock presents with cool, clammy skin due to vasoconstriction.