In cardiogenic shock, which of the following hemodynamic parameters is typically increased?

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In cardiogenic shock, one of the hallmark features is the heart's inability to effectively pump blood, leading to decreased cardiac output. As a result, the body may compensate for the reduced blood flow by increasing venous return to the heart. This often results in elevated pressures in the venous system.

Central Venous Pressure (CVP) reflects the pressure in the thoracic vena cava, which is indicative of the right atrial pressure and is mainly influenced by the volume of blood returning to the heart. In cases of cardiogenic shock, the right heart struggles to handle this increased volume, leading to higher CVP levels.

Furthermore, while other parameters such as systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) may also change in response to deterioration in cardiac function, the CVP is a direct measurement reflecting the increased volume and pressure in the venous system due to poor cardiac output and reduced pumping efficiency. Thus, increased CVP is a key aspect observed in the hemodynamic profile of patients experiencing cardiogenic shock.

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