7 Recognizing Hemodynamic Deterioration Free Online FlashCards

What is hemodynamic deterioration?

It is a worsening in the circulation’s ability to deliver oxygenated blood to tissues.

How is cardiac output calculated?

Cardiac output is the volume of blood pumped per minute: $CO=HR\times SV$.

Which factors affect stroke volume?

Stroke volume is affected by preload, afterload, and contractility.

Does blood pressure alone show whether tissues are well perfused?

No. Blood pressure reflects cardiac output and vascular tone, so a pressure reading alone does not fully describe tissue perfusion.

Which circulation changes may signal deterioration?

A falling pressure with a rising heart rate, weak pulses, cool or mottled skin, delayed capillary refill, or new chest discomfort can be concerning.

Which brain or kidney changes can warn of deterioration?

New confusion, reduced alertness, dizziness, or declining urine output may signal impaired perfusion.

Which breathing or oxygenation changes may signal deterioration?

Increasing respiratory rate, falling oxygen saturation, or a new or increasing oxygen requirement can be warning signs.

Which trends or support changes can indicate worsening instability?

Worsening values over repeated checks, rising lactate, or increasing support needed to maintain blood pressure or oxygenation are concerning trends.

Should a reassuring warning score overrule clinical concern?

No. A warning score can support assessment, but clinical concern should override a reassuring score.

How can fluid loss reduce cardiac output?

Reduced circulating volume can lower venous return and ventricular filling (preload), potentially reducing stroke volume and cardiac output.

What can worsening breathlessness, cool skin, weak pulses, and falling pressure suggest?

It may reflect reduced cardiac output, such as from impaired contractility or increased afterload, but the pattern does not identify the cause.

What should you do when a monitor reading conflicts with the patient's condition?

Assess the patient immediately and check the measurement, including transducer setup and waveform; confirm it if appropriate. Escalate immediately if instability is present.