Hypovolemic shock

• rapid pulse
• pulse may be weak (thready)
• rapid breathing
• anxiety or agitation
• cool, clammy skin
• weakness
• pale skin color (pallor)
• sweating, moist skin
• decreased or no urine output
• low blood pressure
• confusion
• unconsciousness

An examination indicates the presence of shock. There is usually low blood pressure, rapid pulse, and body temperature may drop.

• Laboratory tests include a CBC; other tests may be performed depending on the suspected cause of the loss of volume.
• Tests may be required to determine site and cause of volume depletion, and could include a CT scan or an X-ray of suspected areas.
• Endoscopy may be performed in cases of bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract.
• An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or right heart (Swan-Ganz) catheterization may show low cardiac output (pumping action), confirming shock, and may also help to differentiate between hypovolemic versus cardiogenic shock.

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