Obstructive shock is described as a form of shock associated with:

Obstructive shock is described as a form of shock associated with:

• A. Infection of the heart valves
• B. Shock due to dehydration
• C. The physical obstruction of the great vessels or the heart itself. Embolism and cardiac tamponade are great considered forms of this.
• D. Lack of oxygen in the bloodstream

Answer: (C)

Obstructive shock happens when a physical barrier blocks blood flow through the heart or great vessels, so the heart can’t fill or eject effectively and cardiac output drops despite the heart’s function being intact. Embolism can block the pulmonary outflow or major vessels, while cardiac tamponade places pressure on the heart from fluid in the pericardial sac, preventing proper filling. Other examples include tension pneumothorax and large pericardial effusions, all causing reduced circulation because of a mechanical obstruction rather than a failing pump. This is different from dehydration, which reduces circulating volume, or infections affecting the heart valves or systemic oxygen delivery, which involve other mechanisms rather than a physical blockage.

Obstructive shock happens when a physical barrier blocks blood flow through the heart or great vessels, so the heart can’t fill or eject effectively and cardiac output drops despite the heart’s function being intact. Embolism can block the pulmonary outflow or major vessels, while cardiac tamponade places pressure on the heart from fluid in the pericardial sac, preventing proper filling. Other examples include tension pneumothorax and large pericardial effusions, all causing reduced circulation because of a mechanical obstruction rather than a failing pump. This is different from dehydration, which reduces circulating volume, or infections affecting the heart valves or systemic oxygen delivery, which involve other mechanisms rather than a physical blockage.