Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumPhysiological Adaptation

A nurse is assessing a client who experienced an acute anterior myocardial infarction earlier in the shift. Which of the following assessment findings indicate the client is developing cardiogenic shock? Select all that apply.

  1. Urine output of 15 mL over the past hourAnswer
  2. B
    Bounding radial pulses
  3. Narrowing pulse pressureAnswer
  4. D
    Heart rate of 52 beats per minute
  5. New onset of restlessness and confusionAnswer

Answer

The findings indicating cardiogenic shock include a urine output of 15 mL over the past hour, narrowing pulse pressure, and a new onset of restlessness and confusion.
Cardiogenic shock occurs when the heart loses its ability to pump effectively, leading to systemic hypoperfusion. The correct assessment findings directly reflect this critical state: a urine output of 15 mL/hr demonstrates reduced renal blood flow; a narrowing pulse pressure occurs as systolic pressure falls and diastolic pressure rises from compensatory vasoconstriction; and new onset restlessness signifies decreased cerebral perfusion.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the client's underlying condition and primary risk.
The client had an anterior myocardial infarction, which significantly damages the left ventricle and severely impairs cardiac contractility, placing them at high risk for pump failure.
Understanding the primary pathology helps predict the type of physiological decompensation (cardiogenic shock).
2
Identify the physiological consequences of cardiac pump failure.
Impaired pumping leads to a dramatic drop in stroke volume and cardiac output, reducing oxygen delivery and blood flow to vital organs.
Organ hypoperfusion and the body's compensatory mechanisms create the classic clinical signs of cardiogenic shock.
3
Evaluate each assessment finding against the signs of hypoperfusion.
Oliguria reflects poor renal perfusion. A narrowing pulse pressure indicates compensatory vasoconstriction combined with falling systolic pressure. Restlessness indicates cerebral hypoxia. Weak pulses and tachycardia are the expected hemodynamic responses.
Matching the clinical signs to the pathophysiology correctly differentiates true shock from stable recovery or other complications.

Key Concept

Cardiogenic shock is characterized by severe impairment of ventricular pumping, leading to decreased cardiac output, systemic organ hypoperfusion, and compensatory sympathetic nervous system activation.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Rate this question

Topics

Physiological Adaptation

More questions from this topic