Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

What is a common sign of dehydration as well as low blood pressure?

1. Bradycardia (slow heart rate)

2. Hypertension

3. Tachycardia (fast heart rate)

4. Arrhythmia

The correct answer is: Tachycardia (fast heart rate)

A common sign of dehydration along with low blood pressure is tachycardia, or a fast heart rate. When the body experiences dehydration, it loses fluid, which can lead to a decrease in blood volume. To compensate for this reduced volume and maintain adequate blood flow to vital organs, the heart rate typically increases. This is a physiological response aimed at preserving perfusion, particularly when blood pressure falls. Additionally, tachycardia is often a compensatory mechanism in states of reduced blood volume or pressure; the heart works harder to circulate the remaining blood more efficiently. Dehydration can also affect blood viscosity and lead to changes in heart function. In contrast, conditions like bradycardia, hypertension, or arrhythmia may arise due to other factors and are not indicative of dehydration in the same way. Understanding these physiological responses is essential for recognizing signs of dehydration and the body's efforts to maintain hemodynamic stability.