Which of the following is a sign of shock?

Shock is a critical condition that occurs when the body's organs and tissues do not receive enough blood flow, which can lead to cellular damage and organ failure. One of the classic signs of shock is cool, clammy skin. This occurs because, during shock, the body tries to preserve its vital functions by redirecting blood away from the skin and peripheral tissues to the more vital organs like the heart and brain. As a result, the skin may feel cool to the touch and might appear pale or clammy due to decreased circulation and perspiration.

The other options do not indicate shock. Bright red blood can indicate significant bleeding or trauma but is not a direct sign of shock itself. High blood pressure is inconsistent with shock; in early stages of shock, blood pressure may be normal or even high due to compensatory mechanisms. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is also not typically associated with shock, as shock often leads to tachycardia (an increased heart rate) as the body attempts to compensate for the decreased perfusion. Recognizing the signs of shock is crucial for timely intervention and treatment in emergency situations.