What vital signs may indicate that a four-month-old baby is in shock?

In assessing a four-month-old baby for signs of shock, elevated heart rate (P) and respiratory rate (R) are key indicators. A heart rate of 195 beats per minute and a respiratory rate of 60 breaths per minute reveal significant abnormalities compared to normal ranges for infants, which typically show a heart rate of about 100 to 160 beats per minute and a respiratory rate of approximately 30 to 50 breaths per minute.

When an infant is in shock, the body tries to compensate for decreased perfusion by increasing heart rate and respiratory effort. The markedly elevated values in this situation suggest the baby is likely experiencing some form of physiological distress, possibly due to hypovolemia, sepsis, or other critical conditions.

Other choices present values that are either within a more normal range or not elevated enough to suggest shock. While machinations of heart and respiratory rates are essential, the extremes displayed in the selected answer indicate a state of shock that warrants immediate medical assessment and intervention for the infant.