Adult Critical Care Specialty (ACCS) Practice Exam

What is a key indicator of Hypovolemia based on vital signs?

1. Decreased blood pressure

2. Increased central venous pressure

3. Elevated mean arterial pressure

4. Increased cardiac output

The correct answer is: Decreased blood pressure

A key indicator of hypovolemia, or a reduced volume of blood in the body, is decreased blood pressure. When the body experiences hypovolemia, there is less blood available to fill the circulatory system; as a result, the overall blood pressure drops. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and, in severe cases, shock. In contrast, central venous pressure typically indicates blood volume and cardiac function, and in hypovolemic states, this pressure usually decreases. Elevated mean arterial pressure is generally associated with conditions where blood volume is adequate or high, not low. Additionally, increased cardiac output usually occurs with increased blood volume or in response to some compensatory mechanisms, which would not be evident in hypovolemia. Therefore, low blood pressure serves as a clear, observable sign of hypovolemia in a clinical setting.