Shock

Abstract

Shock is a complex physiological phenomenon involving many organs of the body that must be reversed. If shock is not diagnosed and treated early, life-threatening permanent cellular damage and a syndrome of multiple organ dysfunction will result as numerous organs fail. Therefore, shock causes high morbidity and mortality. To improve outcomes, shock must be treated by a professional team that includes intensive care nurses, internists, and many different specialists. Nurses should always be alert for shock in patients and understand the physiological processes associated with shock.