Shock induces a physiologic state of tissue hypoperfusion, resulting in reduced oxygen delivery to the organs. Vasopressors are commonly used to increase perfusion and prevent multiorgan failure.1  Shock can be classified as either cardiogenic, obstructive, hypovolemic, or distributive. When cardiac output is decreased, a compensatory increase in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) occurs. Cardiogenic shock is most commonly secondary to acute myocardial infarction but may also result from congestive heart failure, valve disorders, and cardiac arrhythmias. Obstructive shock is caused by an obstruction such as a tension pneumothorax or pulmonary emboli. Hypovolemic shock most commonly occurs because of major bleeding events or dehydration. Distributive shock can be related to anaphylaxis, a neurogenic event, or most commonly sepsis. The primary problem in patients with distributive shock is a reduction in SVR resulting in a compensatory increase in cardiac output.1 

Vasopressors are widely used to treat patients with hemodynamic instability by...

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