For clinical reference only — does not replace local trust guidelines or clinical judgement.
‹ Vital Signs
Vital Signs

Hypotension

Hypotension

Severity
BP
  • Mild
    SBP 90–100
  • Significant
    SBP < 90
  • Peri-arrest
    SBP < 80 + signs of shock
🚨 Life-Threatening — exclude first
If suspected, escalate now.
Septic shock with rising lactate
Concealed haemorrhage (GI / AAA / retroperitoneal)
Massive PE / tension pneumothorax / cardiac tamponade
Anaphylaxis
Cardiogenic shock from large MI
💧

Hypovolaemic Causes

Dehydration / poor intakeHaemorrhage (GI, trauma, AAA, post-op)BurnsSevere diarrhoea / vomiting / stoma losses
🦠

Septic Causes

Sepsis / septic shockSevere localised infection (chest, urine, abdomen, line)
❤️

Cardiogenic Causes

Acute MI (esp. RV / large anterior)Acute heart failureArrhythmia (tachy or brady)Severe valve disease
💊

Drug-related Causes

Antihypertensives (recent dose)Sedatives / propofol post-anaestheticOpioidsDiuretics
🚧

Obstructive Causes

Massive PECardiac tamponadeTension pneumothorax
🧬

Endocrine Causes

Adrenal insufficiency / Addisonian crisisHypothyroid coma
🌀

Distributive / Other Causes

AnaphylaxisNeurogenic shock (spinal injury)Vasovagal episode