CC Concepts: Hypotension

Question 1

Which blood pressure has the biggest effect or role in tissue perfusion?

Answer 1

Mean Arterial blood pressure

Question 2

What two physiologic factors determine mean arterial blood pressure?

Answer 2

Cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance

Question 3

Which of the following is not associated with hypotension?

A) Reduction in systemic vascular resistance
B) Reduction in preload
C) Reduction in cardiac function
D) None the above

Answer 3

D) None the above

Question 4

What clinical signs are often associated with hypotension?

Answer 4

Tachycardia, pale MM, prolonged CRT, weak pulses, cool extremities, and altered mentation

Question 5

What measurement is used to identify and diagnose hypotension?

Answer 5

MAP < 80mmHg

Question 6

What methods can be used for blood pressure measurement? Are there any contraindications with any of these methods?

Answer 6

Direct = gold standard, but invasive and challenging

Doppler (indirect) = systolic BP only, sensitive in patients under 10kg, need appropriate cuff placement (40% of limb circumference)

Oscillometric (indirect) = automated, determines MAP, SBP, and DBP, affected by cuff placement, patient size, motion, and arrhythmias

Question 7

Treatment of hypotension includes -?

Answer 7

Fluid resuscitations, positive inotropes, and or vasopressor agents