Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Shock occurs when cellular oxygen delivery fails to meet demand. Regardless of type, the end result is anaerobic metabolism, lactic acid accumulation, and cellular death. Each shock type has a distinct mechanism: cardiogenic (pump failure), hypovolemic (volume loss), distributive (vasodilation), or obstructive (mechanical barrier). Connect Shock Types Recognition to bedside cues you will reassess first: vitals trends, work of breathing, perfusion, mentation, and pain or ischemic equivalents when relevant. Boards reward recognizing when subtle instability outweighs reassurance, then selecting nursing actions that protect airway, circulation, and neurologic status before routine tasks.