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A 32-year-old male was involved in a motorcycle crash and sustained bilateral femur fractures as he was ejected over the handlebars of his bike. He is experiencing signs and symptoms of shock. On the basis of his injury, what is the approximate volume of blood that he has lost?

1) 3 L
2) 2 L
3) 4 L
4) 1 L

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

A patient with bilateral femur fractures from a motorcycle crash and experiencing shock has likely lost a significant volume of blood, potentially 3 to 4 liters, necessitating urgent medical treatment including emergency transfusion with O-negative blood and intravenous fluids.

Step-by-step explanation:

Estimating Blood Loss from Bilateral Femur Fractures

A 32-year-old male suffering from bilateral femur fractures due to a motorcycle accident is showing signs of circulatory shock. The femur is a large bone and can result in significant bleeding when fractured. The approximate volume of blood loss depends on the severity of the fractures and can vary. Without more information on the severity of the shock or additional clinical findings, it is difficult to provide an exact number for the blood loss. However, considering the significant potential for bleeding with such injuries, blood loss can be severe. The options provided suggest volumes of 1 liter up to 4 liters. Based on the context, a blood loss higher than 2 liters may be likely, potentially approaching 3 to 4 liters, especially when considering bilateral involvement and the signs of shock.



Emergency Transfusion in Trauma

In an emergency where a patient's blood type is unknown, O-negative blood is typically transfused. This is because O-negative blood is universally compatible with all other blood types and is, therefore, the safest choice to prevent an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction.



Understanding Circulatory Shock

In the context of circulatory shock, it is essential to restore blood volume as quickly as possible to prevent organ damage and potential death. Treatments typically include intravenous fluids and may also involve medications such as dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine to raise blood pressure and improve perfusion to vital organs.

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