In palpating a patient's feet and hands, you note extreme coolness to the touch. This finding is most consistent with which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When perfusion is poor (as in heart failure or shock), the compensatory vasoconstriction in the extremities helps shunt blood to the vital organs. This reduction in peripheral perfusion causes the extremities to become cool to the touch. The extent to which the coolness to touch extends toward the body is an indication of the degree of circulatory failure.

In Palpating a Patient's Feet and Hands, You Note Extreme