AACN Certification Practice Test 2026 – Comprehensive Exam Prep

The Shock Triad is a critical concept in understanding the physiological responses of the body to shock, which refers to a state of inadequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. The key features identified in the Shock Triad—hypotension, tachycardia, and tachypnea—serve as vital signs that help in recognizing and diagnosing the various forms of shock, including hypovolemic, cardiogenic, and septic shock.

Hypotension indicates low blood pressure, which is a fundamental sign of shock since it reflects inadequate perfusion of vital organs. As the body reacts to maintain blood flow, heart rate increases, leading to tachycardia. This compensatory response aims to circulate remaining blood more quickly to vital organs, counteracting the drop in blood pressure. Tachypnea, or increased respiratory rate, is also a compensatory mechanism; in response to low oxygen levels, the body attempts to enhance gas exchange and oxygen delivery by increasing breathing effort.

These features are critical for clinicians to monitor in a patient suspected of being in shock, as their presence can indicate severity and the need for immediate intervention. The other options presented refer to different medical conditions or features that do not directly relate to the Shock Triad, making the recognition of hypot