Cardiac Shock and Acute Coronary Syndrome · NCLEX Exam

What does rising lactate levels and metabolic acidosis indicate in a patient with cardiogenic shock?

  1. Adequate tissue perfusion with normal cellular oxygen delivery
  2. Poor tissue perfusion with anaerobic metabolism
  3. A finding that is unrelated to the patient's shock state
  4. An over-hydration state from excessive fluid administration
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Correct answer: Poor tissue perfusion with anaerobic metabolism

Rising lactate and acidosis suggest poor tissue perfusion and anaerobic metabolism due to inadequate oxygenated blood flow.

Difficulty: Medium Question 9 of 11

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