Chapter 13- Distributive Shock , Septic & Neurologic

Question 1

What is distributive shock?

Answer 1

Distributive shock results when there is widespread dilation of the small arterioles and venules, causing blood volume to pool and decreasing tissue perfusion.

Question 2

What are the four most common types of distributive shock?

Answer 2

• Septic shock
• Neurogenic shock
• Anaphylactic shock
• Psychogenic shock

Question 3

What causes septic shock?

Answer 3

Septic shock occurs as a result of severe infections, usually bacterial, that generate toxins damaging vessel walls and increasing permeability.

Question 4

What are the three key issues in septic shock?

Answer 4

• Insufficient fluid volume due to plasma leakage
• Fluid collecting in alveoli, interfering with respiration
• Increased vascular volume due to vasodilation

Question 5

What is neurogenic shock?

Answer 5

Neurogenic shock is caused by damage to the spinal cord, particularly at upper cervical levels, leading to loss of control of musculature and blood vessels.

Question 6

What are common causes of neurogenic shock?

Answer 6

• High spinal cord injury
• Brain conditions
• Tumors
• Pressure on the spinal cord
• Spina bifida

Question 7

What happens to blood vessels in neurogenic shock?

Answer 7

Blood vessels below the spinal injury dilate widely, causing blood to pool and resulting in inadequate perfusion.

Question 8

What are the characteristic signs of neurogenic shock?

Answer 8

• Absence of sweating below the injury
• Normal or low heart rate with hypotension
• Normal, warm skin

Question 9

How does neurogenic shock affect body temperature?

Answer 9

Body temperature can rapidly fall to match the environment, often leading to significant hypothermia.

Question 10

What is hypothermia?

Answer 10

Hypothermia is a condition where internal body temperature falls below 95°F (35°C), usually after prolonged exposure to cool or freezing temperatures.

Question 11

Why is maintaining body temperature important in shock treatment?

Answer 11

Maintaining body temperature is crucial because hypothermia can severely complicate the patient’s condition in shock.

Question 12

in neurogenic shock, blood vessels are cut off from the ____

Answer 12

sympathetic nervous system and the nerves that allow them to contract