RNCHAMPS


RNCHAMPS is a mnemonic acronym used to recall the types of shock. The mnemonic is alternately known as CRAMPS NH or NH-CRAMPS. Its utility in distinguishing types of shock has been discussed in medical literature and reference material concerning emergency medicine, emergency medical services, fire rescue, and specialized courses such as the Comprehensive Advanced Life Support Program.

The acronym

Component of acronymExamples: Traumatic CausesExamples: Medical Causes
RRespiratoryFlail chest; tension pneumothorax; pleural effusionHypoxemia due to COPD, asthma, pulmonary edema
NNeurogenicTraumatic brain injury; cervical or high thoracic spinal cord injury
CCardiogenicCardiac tamponade; tension pneumothorax; pulmonary embolismLeft ventricular myocardial infarction; cardiomyopathy; bradydysrhythmias
HHypovolemicHemorrhage; burns Dehydration; diarrheal diseases; aortic aneurysm
AAnaphylacticAnaphylaxis
MMetabolicHypoventilation due to traumatic brain injury or tension pneumothoraxDiabetic ketoacidosis; hypoventilation due to COPD, asthma, or severe pneumonia
PPsychogenicSudden emotional stimulus, i.e. terror, elation, or surprise
SSepticOsteomyelitis; infections secondary to burnsMeningitis; bacteremia; pyelonephritis; upper respiratory infection

Alternatives

The Comprehensive Advanced Life Support Program uses a slightly different acronym called "SHRIMPCAN." This acronym adds the letter "I", which stands for "Ingestions". The remainder of the letters in the acronym stand for the same components as the RNCHAMPS mnemonic.