Archer Baseline Assessment Practice Test

In the progressive stage of shock, weak pulses are a significant symptom due to the impaired blood flow and decreased cardiac output. As shock progresses, the body begins to fail in its ability to maintain adequate perfusion to the organs and tissues. This often results in a state of hypoperfusion, leading to a reduction in pulse strength as the heart struggles to pump effectively against the increasing demand and the declining blood volume.

During this stage, signs of anaerobic metabolism and tissue ischemia become apparent, which contributes to weakened pulses. The body redirects blood flow to vital organs (like the heart and brain) at the expense of peripheral circulation, further diminishing pulse strength in less critical areas.

In contrast, increased urine output, high-grade fever, and warm, pink skin are typically associated with other stages of shock or responses to different conditions. For example, increased urine output is more characteristic of a compensated state where kidney perfusion is still adequate, while warm, pink skin generally indicates adequate blood flow, which is not the case during the progressive stage of shock. High-grade fever is often related to infection or inflammatory responses, rather than the physiological changes seen in shock.