North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

When assessing a person for shock, which skin condition indicates its presence?

1. Dry skin

2. Warm and pink skin

3. Pale and clammy skin

4. Reddish and dry skin

The correct answer is: Pale and clammy skin

The presence of pale and clammy skin is a significant indicator of shock. In a state of shock, the body redirects blood flow away from the skin and extremities to prioritize vital organs, leading to a decrease in skin perfusion. This results in a pale appearance due to reduced blood flow. Additionally, the body's response to shock often involves sweating, which can create a clammy texture on the skin. These combined characteristics—both the pallor and the clamminess—reflect the body’s struggle to maintain circulation and preserve function during a critical condition, making them key signs to assess when evaluating someone for shock. This understanding emphasizes the importance of recognizing skin condition as part of a broader assessment in emergency situations.