What vital sign change is commonly seen with infection or inflammatory processes?

• A. Fever with tachycardia and tachypnea
• B. Hypothermia with bradycardia
• C. No change in vital signs
• D. Hypotension

Answer: (A)

Infection and inflammation typically trigger a fever and an increased metabolic drive, which shows up as a faster heart rate and faster breathing. Fever arises when pyrogens raise the hypothalamic set point, and the body responds with heat production and conservation strategies, which also push the pulse and respiratory rate up to meet the higher energy and oxygen demands of immune activity. So, the description that combines fever with tachycardia and tachypnea best reflects this common pattern.

While severe infection can progress to hypotension and some people—especially older adults or immunocompromised patients—may present with hypothermia, these are not the most typical early signs. A lack of vital sign change is also not characteristic of infection, because the inflammatory process usually prompts at least elevated temperature and heart and/or respiratory rate.