Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid (blood, effusion, or pus) accumulates in the pericardial sac surrounding the heart, compressing the cardiac chambers and preventing adequate filling during diastole. As intrapericardial pressure rises, stroke volume and cardiac output fall rapidly. The classic presentation is Beck's triad: hypotension, muffled heart sounds, and jugular venous distension. The nurse must recognize these signs, monitor vital signs as directed, and report changes immediately to the nurse or provider.