In cardiogenic shock, which of the following is typically decreased?

In cardiogenic shock, cardiac output is typically decreased due to the heart's inability to pump effectively. This condition occurs when the heart muscle is damaged, frequently as a result of an extensive myocardial infarction or other heart conditions.

The decrease in cardiac output is a hallmark of cardiogenic shock, leading to compromised tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. As the heart struggles to maintain sufficient blood flow, the symptoms can manifest as low blood pressure, weak pulse, and signs of poor perfusion in vital organs.

Other parameters such as pulmonary capillary wedge pressure may actually be elevated in cases of cardiogenic shock because it reflects an increase in left atrial pressure secondary to the failing pump function of the heart. Systemic vascular resistance can vary; however, it is often elevated as the body attempts to compensate for the low cardiac output. Mixed venous oxyhemoglobin saturation also tends to be decreased due to inadequate oxygen delivery and utilization by the tissues, not increased.

Thus, the characteristic feature of decreased cardiac output in cardiogenic shock aligns with its pathophysiological understanding and the clinical manifestations observed in affected patients.