In trauma patients, which type of shock is most frequently encountered?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option C
In trauma patients, hypovolemic shock is the most frequently encountered type of shock because it results from acute blood loss due to hemorrhage, which is common in traumatic injuries. This leads to a significant reduction in circulating blood volume, causing inadequate tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. Prompt recognition and control of bleeding, along with fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion, are critical surgical priorities to restore hemodynamic stability. Unlike cardiogenic or neurogenic shock, hypovolemic shock directly relates to the volume deficit caused by trauma.
Reference: Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine: A Comprehensive Study Guide, 9th Edition.