ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What type of shock is commonly associated with pulmonary embolism or myocardial infarction?

1. Neurogenic shock

2. Cardiogenic shock

3. Hypovolemic shock

4. Septic shock

The correct answer is: Septic shock

Pulmonary embolism and myocardial infarction are conditions that directly affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. In the case of a myocardial infarction, part of the heart muscle is damaged due to a lack of blood supply, which leads to inadequate cardiac output and can result in cardiogenic shock. Similarly, a pulmonary embolism obstructs blood flow in the lungs, which can also impair the heart's function and lead to cardiogenic shock as the heart struggles to maintain adequate circulation. Cardiogenic shock is characterized by the heart's inability to pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs, leading to signs of tissue hypoperfusion, such as low blood pressure, cool extremities, and altered mental status. This type of shock is particularly relevant in scenarios where there is intrinsic heart failure due to damage from conditions like a heart attack or a severe blockage like a pulmonary embolism. The other types of shock, such as neurogenic shock, hypovolemic shock, and septic shock, have different mechanisms and underlying causes. Neurogenic shock is primarily caused by a loss of sympathetic tone due to spinal cord injuries, hypovolemic shock results from significant fluid loss, and septic shock arises from severe infections that lead to system-wide inflammation and vasod