PCCN Multisystem Conditions and Shock Flashcards
6 cards from real PCCN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 PCCN Multisystem Conditions and Shock flashcards as text
A patient in septic shock has a MAP of 58 mmHg despite 2 liters of IV fluid. Which vasopressor is the first-line agent per Surviving Sepsis guidelines?
Answer: Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine is the first-line vasopressor for septic shock per Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines due to its alpha-adrenergic effects.
Which hemodynamic profile is characteristic of early distributive (septic) shock?
Answer: Low SVR, high CO, low PCWP
Septic shock causes vasodilation (low SVR), compensatory high cardiac output, and low filling pressures (low PCWP) in early stages.
A trauma patient develops hypotension, distended neck veins, and absent breath sounds on the left. The nurse should prepare for:
Answer: Needle decompression of the left chest
Absent breath sounds with hypotension and JVD after trauma indicates tension pneumothorax requiring emergency needle decompression.
Which finding best differentiates cardiogenic shock from hypovolemic shock?
Answer: Elevated PCWP and reduced cardiac output
Cardiogenic shock is characterized by elevated PCWP (fluid backing up) and reduced cardiac output, unlike hypovolemic shock which has low PCWP.
A patient with anaphylactic shock after contrast dye administration. Which medication is administered first?
Answer: Epinephrine 1:1000 IM
Epinephrine IM is the first-line and life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis, reversing bronchospasm and vasodilation immediately.
What is the most important early goal in managing hemorrhagic shock following trauma?
Answer: Control the source of bleeding
Definitive hemorrhage control is the primary goal because ongoing blood loss cannot be corrected by fluid resuscitation alone.