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Types and Characteristics of Shock

Feb 16, 2025

Understanding Shock: Types and Characteristics

Introduction

  • Presenter: Evan, the Paramedic Coach
  • Objective: Breakdown and explanation of different types of shock
  • Focus: Cardiogenic, Obstructive, Distributive, and Hypovolemic shock

Types of Shock

1. Cardiogenic Shock

  • Cause: Heart's inability to function as a pump
  • Common Causes:
    • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
    • Myocardial Infarction (heart attack)
  • Key Point: Heart failure leads to hypoperfusion (inadequate blood flow)

2. Obstructive Shock

  • Definition: External factors obstruct blood flow
  • Causes:
    • Pulmonary Embolism: Blood clot obstructing pulmonary artery
    • Tension Pneumothorax: Pressure from air in the chest causing heart compression
    • Cardiac Tamponade: Fluid or pressure around the heart obstructing function
  • Key Point: Heart is not at fault; obstruction is external

3. Distributive Shock

  • Definition: Abnormal vasodilation leading to inadequate blood flow
  • Subtypes:
    • Sepsis: Bacterial infection in the bloodstream; often from pneumonia or UTIs
    • Neurogenic Shock: Related to brain and spinal cord damage
    • Anaphylaxis: Severe allergic reaction affecting multiple body systems
  • Characteristics:
    • Lack of normal compensatory epinephrine/norepinephrine response
    • Patients often require vasopressors

4. Hypovolemic Shock

  • Definition: Reduced blood volume
  • Causes:
    • Trauma: Major bleeding from injuries like shootings, stabbings, accidents
    • Dehydration: Significant fluid loss
  • Key Note: Critical in pediatric assessments

Additional Resources

  • Study Course: Video study course available for EMT preparation
  • Content Includes:
    • EMT, Advanced EMT, Paramedic levels
    • National registry prep
    • On-the-job tips, drug cards
  • Access: Lifetime access available through provided link

Conclusion

  • Emphasis on preparedness and thorough understanding of shock types
  • Encouragement to utilize study resources for effective learning and test preparation

Note: These notes are designed to provide a structured understanding of the lecture content for efficient review and study.

Full transcript