Etymed
cardiogenic shock
Definition
A condition characterized by inadequate blood circulation due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, resulting in poor perfusion of organs and tissues
Clinical context
A 65-year-old man presents to the emergency department with severe chest pain and shortness of breath. His blood pressure is 85/50 mmHg, heart rate is 120 bpm, and he has cool, clammy skin with delayed capillary refill. ECG shows extensive ST-segment elevations in multiple leads. His cardiac enzymes are elevated. These findings are consistent with cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction. The patient requires immediate interventions including vasopressors and mechanical circulatory support.
Mnemonic
CARDIAC shock - C = Cool skin, A = Altered mental status, R = Rapid heart rate, D = Delayed capillary refill, I = Inadequate urine output, A = Acute myocardial infarction, C = Cardiac arrest, S = Shock