Septic shock
Structured condition card with NCLEX priority cues and nursing action focus.
Infectious Diseasehigh priorityneeds review
Septic shock
Etiology / Pathophysiology
- Sepsis progresses to persistent circulatory/metabolic dysfunction.
- Vasodilation and capillary leak cause hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion.
Medications
| Class | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Antibiotics by class | Source treatment remains essential. |
Nursing actions
- Support airway, oxygenation, IV access, fluids, and vasopressor pathway as ordered.
- Track MAP, lactate, urine output, mental status, and skin perfusion.
- Escalate rapidly for hypotension or worsening organ signs.
Complications
- Multi-organ failure
- DIC
- Death
NCLEX cues
- Warm flushed early shock can become cold clammy late shock.
- Low urine output signals poor perfusion.
Memory hooks
- Shock means cells are not getting perfused.
Labs / Diagnostics
- Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.
Review notes
- Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.