Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

Cardiogenic shock is primarily characterized by a severe reduction in cardiac output, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion and subsequent hypotension. The systolic blood pressure often falls below 90 mm Hg, which is a defining feature of this condition. This significant drop in blood pressure occurs as the heart is unable to pump effectively, resulting in low blood supply to the organs and tissues. In this context, hypotension is a key symptom, and the measurement of blood pressure is crucial for diagnosis. An understanding of how cardiogenic shock impacts the circulatory system reveals the critical role that proper blood pressure plays. It's important to recognize that the inadequate heart function not only affects blood pressure but also compromises organ perfusion, potentially leading to further complications if not addressed promptly. While other options may present symptoms relevant to different clinical conditions—like hypertension or specific heart rate irregularities—they do not align with the hallmark symptom of cardiogenic shock, which is defined by the presence of hypotension.