Shock
Occurs when cardiac output can not supply organs and tissues with adequate blood flow – a state of collapse of the cardiovascular system leads to cellular dysfunction and organ failure. Multiple causes. Life threatening.
Occurs from internal or external haemorrhage or from pooling/stagnation of the blood flow.
Classification:
• Hypovolaemic (inadequate volume)– haemorrhagic (eg trauma); fluid depletion (eg dehydration; vomiting; thermal injury; trauma)
• Cardiogenic (inadequate myocardinal contraction)– myopathic (eg myocardial infarction; cardiomyopathy); mechanical (eg valvular failure); arrhythmic (eg tachycardia)
• Extracardiac obstructive – impaired diastolic filling (eg tension pneumothorax); impaired systolic contraction (eg acute pulmonary hypertension; aortic dissection)
• Distributive – septic (eg bacterial); toxic shock syndrome; anaphylactic; adrenal crisis
Clinical features:
Due to hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion pale, cool, clammy skin; thirst; rapid and shallow breathing; rapid and weak pulse; nausea and/or vomiting; evidence of loss of body fluids; collapse and unconsciousness.
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) – major cause of death in shock.
Immediate management:
Life threatening emergency. ABC’s; control any bleeding; if conscious supine with legs elevated; if unconscious stable side position with legs elevated; reassurance; maintain body temperature; call emergency services.
Subsequent management:
Admission to intensive care unit; haemodynamic support; restore perfusion; ECG monitoring; oxygen; maintain urine output; treatment of cause
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