NREMT Paramedic

Answer: C - When managing shock, it is critical to provide the patient with ventilatory support and oxygen. Hypoxia triggers the release of vasodilators as a compensatory mechanism in shock. This increases localized blood flow but decreases systemic vascular resistance, resulting in low blood pressure. Acidosis causes depression of the central nervous system, including the vasomotor center. The ventilatory support and oxygen is to reduce shock and acidosis.