Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

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What type of shock is characterized by severe blood loss and a significant drop in blood pressure?

Cardiogenic shock
Hypovolemic shock
Neurogenic shock
Septic shock

The correct answer is: Hypovolemic shock

Hypovolemic shock is characterized by a significant loss of blood volume, which leads to a drastic drop in blood pressure. This condition commonly occurs due to severe hemorrhage or fluid loss from other causes, such as dehydration or severe burns. When the body experiences substantial blood loss, there is insufficient blood volume to fill the circulatory system, causing inadequate perfusion of organs and tissues. As a result, the heart struggles to maintain an adequate cardiac output despite its pumping ability, which leads to decreased blood pressure and can result in organ dysfunction and failure if not promptly addressed. Recognizing hypovolemic shock is critical for first responders and medical personnel to implement immediate interventions, such as fluid resuscitation and addressing the source of bleeding, to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications. The other types of shock, while serious, arise from different underlying causes that do not primarily focus on a reduction in blood volume as the main issue.