Which is NOT a feature of Neurogenic Shock?
**Core Concept**
Neurogenic shock is a type of shock that occurs due to a severe injury to the spinal cord, resulting in a loss of sympathetic tone and vasomotor control. This leads to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance, causing a vasodilatory response and a subsequent decrease in blood pressure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Neurogenic shock is characterized by a warm, flushed skin due to vasodilation, a decreased heart rate (bradycardia), and a decrease in blood pressure. This is because the loss of sympathetic tone leads to the unopposed action of parasympathetic tone, resulting in a decrease in cardiac output and peripheral resistance. Additionally, neurogenic shock often presents with a loss of reflexes, a decreased level of consciousness, and a decrease in urine output.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Warm, flushed skin is actually a feature of neurogenic shock, so this option is incorrect.
**Option B:** Decreased heart rate (bradycardia) is also a feature of neurogenic shock, making this option incorrect.
**Option C:** Decreased blood pressure is a hallmark of neurogenic shock, so this option is incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that neurogenic shock is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment to prevent further complications. The key to diagnosing neurogenic shock is to look for a combination of symptoms, including a loss of reflexes, decreased level of consciousness, and a decrease in urine output, in addition to the characteristic warm, flushed skin and decreased blood pressure.
**Correct Answer: C. Decreased blood pressure is a feature of neurogenic shock.**