For the dyspneic patient in extremis, suspect Shock if:
- Low B/P, Rapid Pulse (usually), poor capillary refill
- Clear Lungs [? bibasilar rales if cardiogenic shock]
- Hypovolemic: Bleeding / Massive diarrhea; Rapid Pulse
- Septic: Fever; Rapid Pulse
-
Cardiogenic:
- History of recent chest pain; Cardiovascular risks
- No reason to suspect Hypovolemic or Septic shock
- Bradycardia (3° heart block)
- Maybe Tachycardia (Atrial Fib/Flutter; Ventricular Tachycardia)
- Call 911. Give O2.
- Hypovolemic / Septic: FLUIDS (Normal Saline wide-bore IV)
- Cardiogenic: NO FLUIDS
See posting Acute Dyspnea – 1.