OEC Cardiovascular Emergencies & Shock Management Flashcards

Which best defines shock as used in emergency medical care?

Answer: Inadequate perfusion of tissues causing cellular hypoxia

Shock is defined as inadequate tissue perfusion that leads to cellular hypoxia and, if untreated, organ failure and death.

Which type of shock results from a severe systemic allergic reaction?

Answer: Anaphylactic shock

Anaphylactic shock results from massive histamine release during a severe allergic reaction, causing systemic vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.

What is the primary field management priority for hypovolemic shock?

Answer: Control hemorrhage and minimize heat loss to prevent hypothermia

Controlling the source of hemorrhage and preventing hypothermia are the critical field interventions for hypovolemic shock before transport.

Which is an early sign of shock before blood pressure falls?

Answer: Anxiety and restlessness

Anxiety and restlessness are early signs of shock caused by the body's catecholamine release in response to decreased tissue perfusion.

A patient with a spinal cord injury has warm, flushed skin and bradycardia. Which type of shock is most likely?

Answer: Neurogenic shock

Neurogenic shock from spinal cord injury causes loss of sympathetic tone, resulting in vasodilation (warm, flushed skin) and bradycardia rather than tachycardia.

When is the modified Trendelenburg position (legs elevated 8–12 inches) appropriate for a shock patient?

Answer: Hypovolemic shock with no spinal, respiratory, or chest injury

Elevating the legs 8–12 inches in hypovolemic shock promotes venous return to the heart when no contraindications such as spinal injury or respiratory distress exist.