Infants and children in shock typically:

Infants and children in shock have a remarkable ability to maintain end-organ perfusion longer than adults due to their physiological adaptations. This is primarily because their bodies can compensate for decreases in blood volume and perfusion pressure by increasing heart rate and constricting peripheral blood vessels. This compensatory mechanism helps ensure that vital organs, like the brain and heart, continue to receive adequate blood supply even in the early stages of shock.

Moreover, children's bodies are less affected by hypovolemia initially, and they can preserve cardiac output despite significant fluid loss. It is important to recognize this phenomenon because it can mask the severity of their condition, making it critical for healthcare providers to monitor them closely for signs of decompensation or deterioration.

In contrast, adults typically exhibit signs of shock more readily, such as a drop in blood pressure, which is why they may present with hypotension earlier in the shock process. Understanding the unique physiological responses in children is crucial for effectively recognizing and treating shock in this population.