TNCC Shock Recognition 3

Question 1

A cyclist is brought in after a high-speed crash with suspected pelvic fracture. He is diaphoretic, HR 136, BP 74/50. What type of shock is MOST likely?

Accepted Answer

Hemorrhagic shock

Answer

Pelvic fractures can cause massive retroperitoneal hemorrhage, making hemorrhagic shock the most likely etiology.

Question 2

Which laboratory value is the BEST early marker of tissue hypoperfusion in shock?

Accepted Answer

Serum lactate

Answer

Elevated serum lactate reflects anaerobic metabolism from tissue hypoperfusion and is an early, sensitive marker of shock severity.

Question 3

During the compensatory phase of shock, the body attempts to maintain perfusion by:

Accepted Answer

Activating the sympathetic nervous system

Answer

Sympathetic nervous system activation causes vasoconstriction, increased heart rate, and redistributed blood flow to maintain perfusion to vital organs.

Question 4

A patient presents with JVD, muffled heart sounds, and hypotension after a penetrating chest wound. This triad is known as:

Accepted Answer

Beck's triad

Answer

Beck's triad — JVD, muffled heart sounds, and hypotension — is the classic presentation of cardiac tamponade causing obstructive shock.

Question 5

In a pediatric trauma patient, which of the following is a LATE sign of hemorrhagic shock?

Accepted Answer

Hypotension

Answer

Children have robust compensatory mechanisms and can maintain normal blood pressure until 25–30% of blood volume is lost, making hypotension a late and ominous sign.

(TNCC) Trauma Nursing Core Course Certified Practice Test

(TNCC) Trauma Nursing Core Course Certified Practice Test

TNCC Shock Recognition 3