Nutrition, comfort and end of lifeQuestion 443 of 1700

Which changes in circulation can you expect as a person nears death?

  1. Fast heart rate, high blood pressure and warm, flushed skin
  2. Steady pulse, steady blood pressure and normal skin color
  3. Slow heart rate, lower blood pressure and cool arms and legs
  4. Fast heart rate, strong breathing and a flushed face
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Correct answer: Slow heart rate, lower blood pressure and cool arms and legs

The heart slows and the pressure drops, which makes the extremities cool.

Source: Nursing Assistant (Reuter), 6.6: End-of-Life Care

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026