Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Practice Exam

What is an important sign of clinical deterioration in a patient?

1. Persistent hypertension

2. Unresponsiveness

3. Stable heart rate

4. Declining blood pressure

The correct answer is: Unresponsiveness

Unresponsiveness is a critical indicator of clinical deterioration in a patient. When a patient becomes unresponsive, it often suggests that there is a significant problem affecting their neurological status, which could be due to various emergent conditions such as severe hypoxia, shock, or neurological injury. This change in responsiveness can indicate an underlying issue that requires immediate medical attention and intervention, as it can escalate quickly and lead to further complications or death if not addressed promptly. In contrast, persistent hypertension may not always indicate deterioration; it can be a chronic issue and may not signify an acute change in the patient’s status. A stable heart rate typically suggests that the patient’s cardiovascular system is not currently experiencing acute stress or distress, and declining blood pressure can be concerning but, by itself, may not provide a complete picture without other symptoms to indicate overall deterioration. Unresponsiveness, however, is a clear and urgent sign that necessitates immediate assessment and intervention.