A patient presents to the emergency department with signs of shock after experiencing severe diarrhea and vomiting for two days. The patient exhibits cold, clammy skin, rapid heartbeat, and low blood pressure. Based on these symptoms, what is the MOST likely type of shock this patient is experiencing?
Cardiogenic shock
Distributive shock
Hypovolemic shock
Neurogenic shock
The correct answer is 'Hypovolemic shock.' This is because the patient's history of severe diarrhea and vomiting likely led to a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, reducing blood volume, which typically causes hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is characterized by signs such as rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and cold, clammy skin due to reduced circulation. In contrast, distributive shock involves a problem with vascular tone and often presents with warm, flushed skin as seen in septic shock. Cardiogenic shock, attributable to heart failure, typically presents with symptoms related to cardiac dysfunction and not primarily due to fluid loss. Neurogenic shock, caused by spinal cord or nervous system injuries, results in blood vessel dilation that would not commonly be associated with diarrhea and vomiting.
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