Which of the following is a sign of neurogenic shock?

Neurogenic shock is characterized by a loss of sympathetic tone, typically following a spinal cord injury or disruption of the autonomic nervous system. This condition results in hypotension due to vasodilation and reduced systemic vascular resistance. In contrast to other forms of shock, neurogenic shock is specifically associated with bradycardia rather than tachycardia. The mechanism behind bradycardia occurs because the vagal tone is unopposed due to the loss of sympathetic stimulation, leading to a decrease in heart rate.

In this scenario, the combination of hypotension and bradycardia is key to diagnosing neurogenic shock. Unlike other types of shock such as hypovolemic shock or septic shock, where tachycardia may be present as a compensatory mechanism, neurogenic shock presents with an unusual pattern of low blood pressure alongside a slowed heart rate. This distinctive combination validates the identification of neurogenic shock in clinical practice.