Shock in infants and children

The clinical signs and symptoms of shock in newborns and children are often more subtle compared to adults. Recurring, avoidable factors for optimal outcome include failure of health care workers to recognize shock at the time of presentation. Children are able to compensate a shock state for longer periods than adults resulting in a sudden, sometimes irreversible, cardiopulmonary collapse. Different forms of shock, their therapy, and frequent errors are depicted and illustrated with practical examples. Early recognition of shock in children is crucial for optimal outcome but is not always obvious. Clinical experience, gut feeling, and careful and repeated interpretation of the vital parameters are essential to recognize and effectively treat the various forms of shock.