What is one sign that may indicate a patient is in septic shock?

In septic shock, the body's response to infection leads to a systemic inflammatory response, which can result in a critical drop in blood pressure—known as hypotension. When the body's blood vessels dilate in response to the infection, it can lead to a significant decrease in systemic vascular resistance and, consequently, blood pressure. This hypotension is a key indicator of septic shock as the body struggles to maintain adequate blood flow to vital organs.

While elevated heart rate can also occur in septic shock as a compensatory mechanism, the defining sign that separates a patient in septic shock from those who might just be septic involves the presence of low blood pressure. High blood pressure is atypical in septic shock due to widespread vasodilation, and bradycardia—a slower than normal heart rate—would not typically be observed in this condition. Understanding these signs is crucial in recognizing and addressing septic shock promptly to prevent further complications.