The clinical and hemodynamic presentation of the shock patient.

It is the nurse's responsibility to assess the critically ill patient and to interpret data so that therapy can be directed to optimally treat that individual. Shock is a complex progressive syndrome that includes specific types, such as cardiogenic, septic, anaphylactic, and hypovolemic. Clinical and hemodynamic parameters provide clues to the specific type of shock and its clinical progress. The progression of the shock state must be monitored by critical care nurses who are knowledgeable of and proficient in clinical assessment skills and the acquisition and interpretation of significant hemodynamic data.