FISDAP Cardiology Practice Test 2025 - Free Cardiology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 400

A 36-year-old female with congenital heart defects is slow to respond and exhibits pale, cool, clammy skin. What condition is she likely experiencing?

Acute Coronary Syndrome

Hypovolemic Shock

Cardiogenic Shock

In this case, the patient is showing signs of slow responsiveness and changes in skin condition—specifically pale, cool, and clammy skin—which are indicative of insufficient perfusion and oxygenation to the body's tissues. When considering the implications of congenital heart defects, cardiogenic shock becomes a significant possibility.

Cardiogenic shock occurs when the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to a reduction in cardiac output and inadequate perfusion. This is consistent with the symptoms presented; the patient's response level and the skin changes suggest that her heart may not be functioning adequately, which could stem from her congenital heart conditions.

In cases of cardiogenic shock, alongside signs of decreased perfusion, you would typically see symptoms such as hypotension (low blood pressure), altered mental status, and signs of ischemia. These factors align with the patient’s description and her congenital heart defects that could contribute to such a condition. Thus, given the context and the patient's history, cardiogenic shock is the most appropriate diagnosis in this scenario.

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