Which of the following is a common sign of shock?

A rapid heartbeat is indeed a common sign of shock. When the body is in shock, the cardiovascular system is under stress as it tries to maintain adequate circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs despite decreased blood volume or impaired circulation. To compensate, the heart increases its rate to pump more blood and maintain blood pressure. This elevated heart rate is known as tachycardia, and it is a key indicator that the body is responding to a critical condition, attempting to preserve life by enhancing blood flow to essential areas.

In contrast, high blood pressure is generally not associated with shock; rather, shock often leads to low blood pressure due to inadequate blood volume or poor circulation. Dry skin can be a sign of other conditions but is not a primary indicator of shock; in fact, skin may feel cold and clammy in shock. Similarly, constipation does not relate to the physiological changes that occur during shock, as this condition primarily affects the nervous and intestinal systems rather than being a direct indicator of shock. Understanding these physiological responses is crucial in recognizing and managing shock effectively.