In cardiogenic shock, the nurse observes jugular venous distension (JVD), pulmonary edema on auscultation, and weak pulses. These findings reflect:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Impaired contractility with backup of blood
JVD, pulmonary edema, and weak pulses reflect a failing myocardium: blood backs up into the venous and pulmonary circulation while forward perfusion drops. This is reduced contractility, not high output, volume depletion, or vasodilation.
Keep practicing
More Types and Management of Shock questions
- Which is a hallmark sign of early compensated shock that the nurse should recognize?
- In hypovolemic shock, what is an expected change in skin perfusion?
- What distinguishes cardiogenic shock from other types of shock in terms of pulse pressure?
- Which nursing assessment finding is most consistent with distributive shock from spinal cord injury (neurogenic shock)?
- A patient in shock is receiving a vasopressor. The nurse understands that monitoring which parameter is most critical to evaluate the adequ…
- Which characteristic most clearly distinguishes hypovolemic shock from distributive shock?