Credits Hours: 2.00

Course Description:
Human survival is dependent on the constant perfusion of the cells and tissues with oxygenated blood. The reduction of oxygen-rich blood to the cells and tissues results in shock and holds potentially devastating consequences for the well-being of the victim. While traumatic causes of shock are well known, there are numerous medical conditions that can result in poor perfusion of the cells and tissues. This course discusses shock resulting from non-traumatic means as well as their cause(s), presentation, and basic management.

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe shock in terms of its pathophysiology and progressive stages (compensatory, progressive, and irreversible).
• Describe the four different shock syndromes (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, obstructive) in terms of mechanism and pathophysiology.
• Identify the specific shock syndrome and stage (compensatory, progressive, and irreversible) based on findings gathered from the patient assessment.
• Formulate the most beneficial care plan specific to the shock syndrome (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, and obstructive).