PA Catheter Cardiogenic Shock — FRCA Final MCQ

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HardIntensive Care MedicinePA Catheter Cardiogenic ShockFRCA Final

PA catheter: CVP 18, PA 55/28, PCWP 25, CO 3.2, SVR 1800. Diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Cardiogenic shock

High filling pressures (CVP 18, PCWP 25) + low CO (3.2) + high SVR (1800) = cardiogenic shock. Heart failing as pump → back-pressure + compensatory vasoconstriction. Septic: low SVR, high CO initially. Hypovolaemic: low filling pressures.

Reference: RCOA – 2023 – PA catheter interpretation