A child with suspected septic illness has a heart rate of 150 beats per minute, capillary refill of four seconds, cool hands, and a normal blood pressure. Which finding is most concerning?

Correct answer: A. The delayed capillary refill with cool peripheral skin

  • A. The delayed capillary refill with cool peripheral skin
  • B. The normal blood pressure during the assessment
  • C. The child asking for a drink after the examination
  • D. The heart rate decreasing slightly after reassurance

Explanation

Delayed capillary refill and cool peripheral skin indicate poor peripheral perfusion and may occur before hypotension in compensated shock. A normal blood pressure does not exclude shock in children because blood pressure can be maintained until late deterioration.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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