Which of the following is NOT an indicator for elevated vital signs?

Shock is not considered an indicator for elevated vital signs, as it encompasses a state of inadequate blood flow to tissues, which can result in various physiological changes, including decreased blood pressure and altered heart rates. While some patients in shock may exhibit elevated heart rates or other vital signs in response to stress, shock itself is a critical condition that typically leads to compromised circulation and often results in decreased or abnormal vital sign metrics.

In contrast, fever, infection, and hyperthermia do indicate elevated vital signs. Fever is a common response to infection and is characterized by an elevated body temperature. Infection often triggers systemic responses that include increases in heart rate and respiratory rate. Hyperthermia specifically refers to an elevated body temperature due to the inability of the body to dissipate heat effectively, leading to high vital signs as the body attempts to cool itself down. Thus, understanding the physiological implications of each condition helps clarify why shock does not fit the criteria as an indicator for elevated vital signs.