🚨 Types of Shock: NCLEX Breakdown of Hypovolemic, Cardiogenic, and Distributive Shock
Shock is a life-threatening condition of inadequate perfusion — and it's all over the NCLEX.
You’ll be tested on:
The causes of different types of shock
Clinical signs that differentiate them
Interventions that save lives
Let’s break it down the KOTC way — with clear visuals and a quick-reference table.
🚨 Shock Types Comparison Table
| Type of Shock | Cause | Key Signs | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypovolemic | Blood or fluid loss | ↓ BP, ↑ HR, cool skin | Fluids, blood products |
| Cardiogenic | Pump failure (MI, arrhythmias) | ↓ BP, ↑ HR, ↑ CVP, pulmonary edema | Inotropes, diuretics, oxygen |
| Distributive | Vasodilation (sepsis, anaphylaxis) | ↓ BP, warm skin, bounding pulses | Vasopressors, fluids, treat cause |
📌 Focus: Septic Shock (Distributive Type)
| Phase | Key Signs |
|---|---|
| Warm Phase | Fever, flushed skin, bounding pulses |
| Cold Phase | Cool skin, hypotension, low output, altered LOC |
Always suspect sepsis in patients with infection + unstable vitals.
🧠 NCLEX-Style Question
A trauma patient has a BP of 80/50, HR 130, cold extremities, and flat neck veins. Which intervention comes first?
✅ Answer: Begin fluid resuscitation — suspect hypovolemic shock.
💡 Mnemonic: “SHOCKED”
S – Skin: cool/clammy or flushed
H – Hypotension
O – Output ↓ (urine)
C – Confusion
K – Keep O₂ up
E – Elevated HR
D – Decreased perfusion signs
🩺 Nursing Priorities for All Shock Types
Oxygen administration
Frequent VS & telemetry
Insert large-bore IVs
Prepare for fluids, vasopressors, or inotropes
Monitor for end-organ damage: LOC, urine output, labs
📲 Study Smarter with King of the Curve
🔁 Emergency visuals for all shock states
🎯 Timed NCLEX simulations with fluid resuscitation questions
🧪 Mnemonics + visual flashcards to recall faster
Explore more in the StudyScience section
🏁 Final Thoughts
When it comes to shock on the NCLEX, it’s all about recognizing the cause, understanding the hemodynamic profile, and initiating the right intervention fast. This visual-first guide will keep you calm under pressure.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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