Numbers that Matters
The minimum MAP required to perfuse vital organs.
What is 60 mmHg?
Before placing a radial arterial line, this test must be performed to check collateral circulation.
What is the Allen’s test?
This drug increases contractility and CO, used for weak hearts, but does not significantly affect SVR
What is dobutamine?
↓CO, ↑PCWP, ↑SVR, ↑CVP = this type of shock.
A “dampened” arterial waveform suggests this problem.
What is air, clot, or kinking in the line (reduced accuracy)?
Formula to calculate MAP from systolic and diastolic pressures.
What is (SBP + 2 × DBP) ÷ 3?
This vasopressor is first-line in septic shock because it raises SVR and MAP
What is norepinephrine (Levophed)?
↓CO, ↓CVP, ↓PCWP, ↑SVR = this shock profile.
What is hypovolemic shock?
This value, derived from (MAP – CVP) × 80 ÷ CO, represents afterload
What is systemic vascular resistance (SVR)?
This drug is a pure alpha agonist, increasing BP without affecting HR or contractility.
What is phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)?
BP 84/50, CO 2.8 L/min, CVP 6 mmHg.
👉 Calculate MAP and SVR.
MAP = 61 mmHg; SVR = 1571 dyn·s/cm⁵
The dicrotic notch corresponds to closure of this cardiac valve.
What is the aortic valve?
This vasodilator acts quickly and is used for hypertensive crisis.
What is nitroprusside (Nipride)?
BP 92/58, CO 7.0, CVP 2 mmHg.
👉 Calculate MAP and SVR.
MAP = 69 mmHg; SVR = 766 dyn·s/cm⁵
You’re monitoring a trauma patient with massive hemorrhage. Hemodynamics show:
CO: 2.0
CVP: 1
PCWP: 2
SVR: 1600
MAP: 55
What shock type is this, and what is the priority intervention?
What is hypovolemic shock, and the intervention is rapid volume resuscitation with IV fluids/blood products.