Multisystem: Shock, Sepsis and Metabolic Syndromes · USMLE Step 1

A patient with cardiogenic shock has decreased cardiac output. Which compensatory mechanism increases systemic vascular resistance?

  1. Increased vagal tone
  2. Sympathetic activation
  3. Decrease in renin release
  4. Decreased vasopressin
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Sympathetic activation

Sympathetic activation increases SVR to maintain perfusion pressure. However, perfusion to organs may still be inadequate.

Difficulty: Medium Question 14 of 19

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