In compensated shock, the body activates physiological mechanisms like increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, and enhanced myocardial contractility to maintain adequate tissue perfusion. These compensations help sustain normal blood pressure despite decreased circulating volume or cardiac output. Hence, blood pressure remains within normal limits during this stage, preventing early detection solely by hypertension or hypotension. Only when these compensatory mechanisms fail does blood pressure drop, leading to decompensated shock. Monitoring these responses is crucial for timely surgical intervention.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Fauci et al., 20th Edition.