Paper I — 2024 June (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme) — Q5
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Paper I
2024 June (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme) · 100 marks · 180 min
Question
(
(a) Discuss the management of cardiogenic shock.
( 4 mark(s)
(b) Discuss the treatment of status asthmaticus. 4 mark(s)
Q58 marksShort Essays
Answer
a) Management of cardiogenic shock
Identify and treat the underlying cause (revascularization for MI-related shock — primary PCI where possible).
Oxygen — corrects hypoxia.
Inotropic support: Dobutamine (beta-1 agonist, increases contractility with less peripheral vasoconstriction) or Dopamine (dose-dependent — D1 renal vasodilation at low dose, beta-1 inotropy at moderate dose, alpha-1 vasoconstriction at high dose).
Vasopressors (Norepinephrine) if hypotension is severe/refractory, to maintain organ perfusion pressure.
Cautious fluid management — fluids may worsen pulmonary congestion if the shock is due to pump failure rather than volume depletion; careful assessment of volume status is essential.
Mechanical circulatory support (intra-aortic balloon pump, ECMO) in refractory cases.
b) Treatment of status asthmaticus
Oxygen — high-flow, titrated to maintain saturation.
Nebulized SABA (Salbutamol), repeated/continuous, combined with nebulized Ipratropium — greater bronchodilation than either alone.
Systemic corticosteroids, given early (IV Hydrocortisone/oral Prednisolone) — interrupts the attack despite delayed onset.
IV Magnesium sulfate — add-on for severe attacks not responding adequately.
IV Aminophylline — further-line addition in refractory cases.
Mechanical ventilation — for impending/actual respiratory failure.