Which of the following markers indicates cardiogenic shock?

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The presence of oliguria, or decreased urine output, is significant in indicating cardiogenic shock. In this condition, the heart's ability to pump blood is compromised, leading to inadequate perfusion of vital organs, including the kidneys. As a result, the kidneys may not receive sufficient blood flow, prompting a reduction in urine production. Oliguria can be a clear sign of renal hypoperfusion and is often associated with worsening cardiac function.

On the other hand, while lactate levels can indicate tissue hypoperfusion and metabolic acidosis, they are not specific to cardiogenic shock alone as they can be elevated in other forms of shock as well. Hypertension is generally not associated with cardiogenic shock; often, patients present with hypotension due to reduced cardiac output. Bradycardia can occur in various settings, including certain types of cardiogenic shock, but it is not a defining marker for the condition. The key link here is understanding that oliguria is directly related to decreased renal perfusion due to the heart's inadequate pumping ability in cardiogenic shock.

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