Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

What is a limitation of prehospital fluid resuscitation of the patient in hemorrhagic shock?

1. Inability of fluids to carry oxygen

2. Pulmonary edema

3. Increased hemorrhage

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The limitation of prehospital fluid resuscitation in patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock includes several critical factors. Fluids administered in this context do not possess the ability to carry oxygen, which can lead to inadequate tissue oxygenation. This is particularly important since hemorrhagic shock is associated with a significant loss of blood volume and therefore oxygen-carrying capacity, necessitating the need for red blood cells rather than crystalloids or colloids. Pulmonary edema can also arise from the volume overload caused by administering excessive fluids. In situations of hemorrhagic shock where the body’s compensatory mechanisms are already overwhelmed, introducing large volumes of fluid can lead to complications such as fluid accumulation in the lungs, making it harder for the patient to breathe and worsening overall oxygenation. Additionally, the administration of fluids may contribute to increased hemorrhage. This can occur due to the dilution of clotting factors in the blood and the potential for dislodging any existing clots, thus exacerbating the patient’s condition and prolonging the hemorrhagic event. By considering all these factors, it is clear that the limitations of fluid resuscitation in cases of hemorrhagic shock encompass the lack of oxygen transport, risk of pulmonary complications, and the potential for increased