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MBBS QUESTION #10243
Question 1
A patient in early hypovolemic shock shows a fall in cardiac output. Baroreceptor reflex activation (from the carotid sinus and aortic arch) in response to this fall in blood pressure produces which autonomic response?
  • Decreased sympathetic outflow with increased vagal tone, producing bradycardia and vasodilation
  • Increased sympathetic outflow with decreased vagal tone, producing tachycardia and peripheral vasoconstriction✔️
  • No significant change in autonomic outflow
  • Selective activation of parasympathetic vasodilator fibers to skeletal muscle only
Correct Answer Explanation
A fall in arterial pressure reduces baroreceptor firing, which disinhibits the vasomotor center, resulting in increased sympathetic outflow (tachycardia, increased contractility, arteriolar and venous vasoconstriction) and reduced vagal tone — the compensatory response that helps maintain perfusion pressure in early hemorrhagic shock.