Which of the following is NOT a typical finding when the body compensates for reduced blood pressure?

• A. Increased heart rate
• B. Decreased respiratory rate
• C. Increased respiratory rate
• D. Cool sweaty skin

Answer: (B)

When blood pressure falls, the body activates mechanisms to preserve perfusion to vital organs. The heart speeds up to increase cardiac output, and blood vessels constrict to raise systemic vascular resistance, lifting blood pressure. Breathing often speeds up to enhance oxygen delivery and help remove carbon dioxide as tissues sense reduced perfusion. Skin becomes cool and sweaty because of sympathetic activation and redirection of blood flow to core organs. A decrease in respiratory rate wouldn’t support these needs; slowing respiration would reduce oxygen supply when the body is trying to compensate for low blood pressure.