ABSTRACT
Generally, shock is defined as acute circulatory failure resulting in reduced tissue perfusion and general hypoxaemia. Many definitions fail to capture its complexity. Irrespective of the cause of shock, the resultant features are the same, i.e. inadequate tissue perfusion and impairment of homeostasis. Each type can equally be life-threatening, requiring quick and aggressive management. Shock can develop in any patient, in any clinical setting. Thus, it is imperative that nurses recognise clinical manifestations of shock early and initiate early appropriate intervention. This chapter provides an explanation for the physiological changes occurring in each stage of shock. Different types of shock are examined, together with the nursing and medical management.
