Cardiogenic Shock: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
Which of the following is the most common cause of cardiogenic shock?
A. Right ventricle failure
B. Tachydysrhythmias
C. Myocardial infarction
D. Coronary vasospasms
E. Papillary muscle rupture
Answer and topic summary
The answer is C. Myocardial Infarction
Cardiogenic shock is a type of shock that occurs due to cardiac pump failure; essentially it is the most severe expression of heart failure. It is defined by systemic tissue hypoperfusion secondary to poor cardiac output despite adequate intravascular volume. The most common cause of cardiogenic shock is a myocardial infarction. Other causes include atrial/ventricular tachyarrhythmias, aortic or mitral valve insufficiency, septal defects, free wall rupture, etc. Therapy options vary but may include inotropic support (e.g., dobutamine), intra-aortic balloon pump, and percutaneous ventricular assist devices.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Cardiology ⇒ ⇒
Also covered as part of the Emergency Medicine EOR topic list