What is the indicative sign of early septic shock?

In the context of early septic shock, the phenomenon of increased cardiac output and index arises as a compensatory mechanism initiated by the body's response to a systemic infection and subsequent inflammation. In this early phase, the body attempts to maintain adequate tissue perfusion in the face of potential hypotension from vasodilation associated with sepsis.

Mechanisms include the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators that result in increased heart rate and stronger myocardial contractions. Therefore, even though blood vessels are dilating, the body compensates by pumping blood more aggressively, leading to elevated cardiac output.

In contrast, decreased blood pressure typically arises later in sepsis as the body's compensatory mechanisms are overwhelmed. While elevated heart rate may also occur during early septic shock, it is typically associated with increased cardiac output rather than standing alone as a definitive sign. A decreased respiratory rate would not be indicative of septic shock; in fact, hyperventilation and increased respiratory effort are more commonly observed due to metabolic acidosis and the body's effort to compensate for oxygen demand.

Thus, the indicator of both increased cardiac output and index serves as a hallmark of early septic shock, highlighting the body’s initial response to the overwhelming infection.