Cardiogenic shock is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction and must be managed carefully to maximise recovery and patient prognosis. Current guidelines aim to manage this by earliest possible revascularisation along with potential mechanical interventions such as intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) therapy (and continuous positive airway pressure) and pharmacological management such as intravenous diuresis, opiates, vasodilators, inotropes and vasopressors. Nursing care of the patient with an IABP focuses on assessing the patient's cardiac output, assessing the efficacy of pressure augmentation, observing for and managing any potential complications of this invasive therapy and psychological and spiritual care of the patient.