Nursing Interventions: Cardiogenic Shock

1. Administer oxygen by face mask or artificial airway to ensure adequate oxygenation of tissues.
2. Adjust the oxygen flow rate to higher or lower level, as blood gas measurements indicate.
3. Administer an osmotic diuretic, such as mannitol, if ordered to increase renal blood flow and urine output.
4. Never flex the patient’s “ballooned” leg at the hip because this may displace or fracture catheter.
5. To ease emotional stress, allow frequent rest periods as possible.
6. Allow family members to visit and comfort the patient as much as possible.
7. Monitor and record blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, and peripheral pulse every 1 to 5 minutes until the patient stabilizes.
8. Record hemodynamic pressure readings every 15 minutes.
9. Monitor ABG values, complete blood count, and electrolyte levels.
10. During therapy assess skin color and temperature and note any changes. Cold and clammy skin may be a sign of continuing peripheral vascular constriction, indicating progressive shock.