Cardiogenic shock is characterized by (i) organ dysfunction related to hypoperfusion; (ii) as a result of circulatory failure primarily due to inadequate cardiac output; (iii) that can be attributed predominantly to an underlying cardiac dysfunction.

A phenotyping scheme that includes the acuity/severity of cardiogenic shock and characterization of the right and left heart systems can guide therapeutic interventions; and inform prognosis.

Assessment of the right and left heart systems should include pulmonary and systemic vascular ‘function’. Distributive shock or vasoplegia often complicates cardiogenic shock.

‘Effective oxygen delivery’ can be used to assess response to therapeutic interventions in cardiogenic shock.