Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

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Which condition is characterized by tachycardia, low systolic pressure, and elevated diastolic pressure?

  1. Cardiogenic shock

  2. Septic shock

  3. Hypovolemic shock

  4. Anaphylactic shock

The correct answer is: Cardiogenic shock

The condition characterized by tachycardia, low systolic pressure, and elevated diastolic pressure is commonly associated with cardiogenic shock. In cardiogenic shock, the heart's ability to pump effectively is compromised, which leads to reduced cardiac output and ultimately low systolic blood pressure. As the body tries to compensate for this decrease in blood flow and pressure, it triggers tachycardia, which is the heart's effort to maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs. The phenomenon of elevated diastolic pressure can occur due to increased systemic vascular resistance as compensatory mechanisms are activated, leading to a narrow pulse pressure. The other conditions mentioned, while associated with shock, typically do not present with this specific blood pressure profile. For example, septic shock is more often characterized by low systemic vascular resistance and can cause a wide pulse pressure rather than elevated diastolic pressure. Hypovolemic shock usually presents with low systolic and diastolic pressures due to a significant loss of volume. Anaphylactic shock, caused by a severe allergic reaction, typically results in vasodilation leading to both low systolic and diastolic pressures, rather than elevated diastolic pressure. Understanding these distinctions can help in recognizing the clinical manifestations associated with