NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

What additional management strategy is advised for treating cardiogenic shock with hypoperfusion?

1. Immediate surgery

2. Use of inotropes and consideration of vasopressors if hypotensive

3. Oral hydration therapy

4. Administration of anticoagulants

The correct answer is: Use of inotropes and consideration of vasopressors if hypotensive

When someone is experiencing cardiogenic shock with hypoperfusion, it means their heart is unable to pump enough blood to their body's vital organs and tissues. This can be a life-threatening situation and requires prompt medical intervention. Immediate surgery (option A) may not be a suitable management strategy as it can be risky and time-consuming, and may not address the immediate need for stabilizing the patient. Oral hydration therapy (option C) may be beneficial for treating certain types of shock, but is not advisable for cardiogenic shock as it does not directly address the underlying issue. Administration of anticoagulants (option D) may also not be a suitable strategy as it is aimed at preventing blood clots, which may not be a major concern in cardiogenic shock. This leaves option B, which involves using medications called inotropes to increase the heart's ability to pump blood and considering vasopressors to raise blood pressure if the patient is hypotensive. This strategy is in line with the immediate need to improve the heart's pumping function and ensure adequate blood flow to the body's vital organs and tissues.