What is the definition of shock?

Shock is defined as inadequate end organ perfusion, which means there is insufficient blood flow to the organs and tissues of the body to meet their metabolic needs. This can result in cellular dysfunction and, if not corrected, can lead to organ failure and death. The underlying issues in shock often involve decreased cardiac output, low blood volume, or vascular resistance, all of which impede the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to vital organs.

This concept is critical in emergency medicine as it serves as a foundation for recognizing and managing patients who are in a state of shock. Timely intervention is crucial since the outcomes can significantly improve with early identification and treatment of the underlying causes. In contrast, conditions like an overactive immune response, elevated blood pressure, or severe anxiety do not fit the definition of shock as they do not primarily focus on the inadequate blood supply to organs, which is the key characteristic of shock.