Learning Objectives

  • Define shock and explain why normal blood pressure does not exclude it
  • Apply the key physiological equations (BP = CO × SVR; DO2 = CO × O2 content) to understand shock
  • Classify shock into hypovolaemic, cardiogenic, distributive, and obstructive types
  • Explain the Starling curve and the concepts of preload, contractility, and afterload
  • Know the clinical features that distinguish the four types of shock