RNCHAMPS (pronounced "R, N, champs") is a mnemonic acronym used to recall the types of shock. The mnemonic is alternately known as CRAMPS NH ("Cramps, New Hampshire") or NH-CRAMPS ("New Hampshire 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 (due to third spacing)Dehydration; diarrheal diseases; aortic aneurysm AAnaphylactic Anaphylaxis 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 SSeptic Osteomyelitis; infections secondary to burns Meningitis; bacteremia; pyelonephritis; upper respiratory infection
Alternatives The Comprehensive Advanced Life Support (CALS) Program uses a slightly different acronym called "SHRIMPCAN." This acronym adds the letter "I", which stands for "Ingestions" (drug overdoses). The remainder of the letters in the acronym stand for the same components as the RNCHAMPS mnemonic.
References