Physiological monitoring and clinical assessment of patients in shock

Shock is a life-threatening situation for which circulatory failure represents a major potential complication. While there are numerous disposing factors, the detrimental impacts on the human body are similar. Drop in blood pressure is a common clinical presentation. Severity of impact and chance of survival from shock depend heavily on the speed with which blood pressure recovers and tissue oxygenation is preserved. This article describes the types, pathophysiological process, and major complications of shock, along with relevant disposing factors, risk groups, assessment techniques, monitoring skills and nursing care.