[Management of cardiogenic shock: a proposal for a shared protocol]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a severe condition with high mortality rates.
• Optimal management requires comprehensive hemodynamic assessment and goal-directed therapy.
• Mechanical support devices offer hemodynamic sustainment with fewer cardiotoxic effects than traditional therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a new multidisciplinary protocol for cardiogenic shock management.
• To streamline patient care, enhance specialist cooperation, and optimize resource allocation.
• To address mechanical support device implantation and palliative care referral in CS patients.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a novel, multidisciplinary CS management protocol in 2019.
• Focus on pre-established, shared protocols for consistent care delivery.
• Integration of comprehensive hemodynamic monitoring and tailored medical therapy.
• Consideration of mechanical circulatory support devices and palliative care referral.

Main Results:

• The protocol aims to improve prognosis and resource allocation for high-risk CS patients.
• Enhanced cooperation among healthcare specialists is a key objective.
• Streamlined management addresses critical issues like mechanical support and palliative care.

Conclusions:

• A structured, multidisciplinary approach to cardiogenic shock can improve patient outcomes.
• The adopted protocol standardizes care, optimizes interventions, and facilitates critical decision-making.
• This protocol represents a significant step in managing complex CS cases, aligning with international best practices.