Cardiogenic Shock
Cardiogenic Shock - Caused by failure of the heart to pump an adequate amount of blood to the vital organs. May occur over a period of time or may be of sudden onset. Patients are most at risk if they are suffering from:
1. MI - Myocardial Infarction
2. Cardiac tamponade (compression of the heart caused by increased intrapericardial pressure due to collection of fluid in the pericardium)
3. Dysrhythmias (disturbance of rhythm - abnormal cardiac rhythm)
4. Other cardiac pathologies
Signs and Symptoms:
- Chest pain radiating to arms and jaw
- Dizziness/ respiratory distress
- Cyanosis
- Restlessness/anxiety
- Rapid change in LOC (loss of consciousness)
- Pulse may be irregular and slow; may have tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) and tachypnea (rapid breathing)
- Carotid pulse may be difficult to palpate indicating decreased stroke volume (the difference b/t the end-diastolic and end systolic volume) of the heart
- Decreased BP
- Cool/clammy skin
Radiographer's Response:
- Place patient in fowler's position to facilitate respiration (takes pressure off of lungs)
- Assess vital signs
- Withhold fluids