This is your toolkit in hemodynamic monitoring.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To appraise the basic and more advanced methods available for hemodynamic monitoring, and describe the definitions and criteria for the use of hemodynamic variables.

RECENT FINDINGS: The hemodynamic assessment in critically ill patients suspected of circulatory shock follows a step-by-step algorithm to help determine diagnosis and prognosis. Determination of accurate diagnosis and prognosis in turn is crucial for clinical decision-making. Basic monitoring involving clinical examination in combination with hemodynamic variables obtained with an arterial catheter and a central venous catheter may be sufficient for the majority of patients with circulatory shock. In case of uncertainty of the underlying cause or to guide treatment in severe shock may require additional advanced hemodynamic technologies, and each is utilized for different indications and has specific limitations. Future developments include refining the clinical examination and performing studies that demonstrate better patient outcomes by targeting hemodynamic variables using advanced hemodynamic monitoring.

SUMMARY: Determination of accurate diagnosis and prognosis for patients suspected of circulatory shock is essential for optimal decision-making. Numerous techniques are available, and each has its specific indications and value.