What Is Obstructive Shock and Why Should You Care

Obstructive shock occurs when physical obstruction impedes blood flow, reducing cardiac output and tissue perfusion.

Causes include tension pneumothorax, cardiac tamponade, and pulmonary embolism.

Physical obstruction can be extracardiac or intracardiac, affecting blood flow.

Obstructive shock can lead to inadequate organ perfusion, causing multi-organ failure.

Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Tension pneumothorax can cause obstructive shock by compressing major blood vessels.

Cardiac tamponade restricts heart function, leading to decreased cardiac output.

Pulmonary embolism obstructs blood flow in the lungs, causing right ventricular strain.

Obstructive shock requires immediate intervention, such as thoracentesis or pericardiocentesis.

10. Delayed treatment can result in cardiogenic shock, organ failure, and increased mortality.

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