Shock

Question 1

what is shock

Answer 1

a global reduction in blood flow (or perfusion) to the organs.

Question 2

Shock results in accumulation

Answer 2

of the products of metabolism within tissues and this triggers an inflammatory response that causes cellular and organ dysfunction.

Question 3

Through sympathetic nervous system stimulation, the body attempts to

Answer 3

increase cardiac output and shunt blood to essential organs such as the brain, heart, liver and kidneys.

Question 4

The combination of sympathetic nervous system stimulation and organ dysfunction produce the signs of shock, including:

Answer 4

ū Tachycardia.
ū Cold and clammy skin.
ū Prolonged capillary refill time.
ū Tachypnoea.
ū Narrowed pulse pressure.
ū Hypotension.
ū Altered level of consciousness.

Question 5

Hypovolaemic shock is caused by

Answer 5

inadequate intravascular volume, for example bleeding or severe dehydration. See the relevant section if the cause is clear.

Question 6

Anaphylactic shock i

Answer 6

is caused by inflammatory mediators released in response to a severe allergic reaction.

Question 7

Septic shock is caused by

Answer 7

inflammatory mediators released in response to a severe infection. See the ‘sepsis’ section.

Question 8

Cardiogenic shock

Answer 8

s caused by low cardiac output as a result of a heart problem.

Question 9

Neurogenic shock is caused by

Answer 9

loss of sympathetic nervous system outflow following spinal cord injury.

Question 10

Obstructive shock is caused by a

Answer 10

clinical condition causing obstruction of blood flow into, or out of the heart.

Question 11

Hypoadrenal shock (also called adrenal crisis) is caused by

Answer 11

is caused by inadequate levels of circulating cortisol.