Question

A client has arrived in the emergency department in cardiogenic shock. Which of the following assessment findings confirm this diagnosis? Select all that apply.

a) Diminished breath sounds in the bases, bilaterally
b) Bright red color noted in the nail beds and lips
c) Less than 5 mL dark, concentrated urine in the past hour
d) Difficult to arouse with changes in level of consciousness
e) BP reading of 80/65

Answer 1

Confirmation of cardiogenic shock in a patient is identified by findings such as diminished breath sounds indicating fluid accumulation, dark concentrated urine due to poor perfusion, altered consciousness because of inadequate cerebral blood flow, and a significantly low blood pressure illustrating reduced cardiac output. Bright red color in the nail beds and lips is not a finding associated with this condition.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cardiogenic shock is a condition where the heart fails to pump blood effectively, leading to poor circulation and inadequate perfusion of tissues. Confirming a diagnosis involves looking for the classic signs of shock, including organ dysfunction and hemodynamic changes. The correct assessment findings that confirm the diagnosis of cardiogenic shock would include:

• Diminished breath sounds in the bases, bilaterally, which indicates fluid accumulation due to heart failure
• Less than 5 mL dark, concentrated urine in the past hour, as a result of poor kidney perfusion and fluid conservation by the body
• Difficult to arouse with changes in level of consciousness, suggesting altered cerebral perfusion
• BP reading of 80/65, which shows significantly low blood pressure from inadequate cardiac output

A bright red color in the nail beds and lips is more commonly associated with adequate oxygenation and is not indicative of cardiogenic shock. Correct identification of these assessment findings is crucial in the management and treatment of cardiogenic shock.