Question

An adult patient is being treated in the emergency department after falling 30 feet and landing on their head. The patient has been intubated and initial stabilization efforts are ongoing. The vital signs are BP 70/40 mm Hg, HR 44 beats/minute, and respirations are being assisted at 16 breath/minute. The patient's skin is warm, dry, and of a normal color. These findings are most consistent with what type of shock?

A. Spinal
B. Hypovolemic
C. Obstructive
D. Neurogenic

Answer 1

The findings of a patient after falling 30 feet and landing on their head, with a blood pressure of 70/40 mm Hg, heart rate of 44 beats/minute, and assisted respirations at 16 breath/minute, along with warm, dry, and normal-colored skin are most consistent with neurogenic shock. The Correct Answer is Option. D.

Step-by-step explanation:

The findings of a patient after falling 30 feet and landing on their head, with a blood pressure of 70/40 mm Hg, heart rate of 44 beats/minute, and assisted respirations at 16 breath/minute, along with warm, dry, and normal-colored skin are most consistent with neurogenic shock.

Neurogenic shock occurs with cranial or high spinal injuries that damage the cardiovascular centers in the medulla oblongata or the nervous fibers originating from this region. This type of shock often leads to bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure). The warm, dry skin is a result of peripheral vasodilation caused by the loss of sympathetic innervation.

In this case, the patient's symptoms are most likely due to a spinal injury from the fall, causing neurogenic shock.