Final answer:
Untreated small bowel obstruction can progress to obstructive shock, where a significant portion of the vascular system is blocked, resulting in inadequate blood flow to the tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse is aware that untreated small bowel obstruction can progress to obstructive shock. Obstructive shock occurs when a significant portion of the vascular system is blocked, leading to an inadequate blood flow to the tissues. It is important to diagnose and treat small bowel obstruction promptly to prevent the progression to obstructive shock.