Question

1. which of the following injuries would most likely cause obstructive shock? a) liver laceration b) cardiac tamponade c) simple pneumothorax d) spinal cord injury 15. which of the following patients is in decompensated shock? a) a 20 - year - old female with absent radial pulses and dilated pupils b) a 23 - year - old restless male with cool, clammy skin and tachycardia c) a 28 - year - old female with pale skin and rapid, shallow respirations d) a 32 - year - old male with anxiety and a systolic blood pressure of 110 mm hg

Explanation:

1. Obstructive shock is caused by a mechanical obstruction to blood - flow. Cardiac tamponade is a condition where fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac, compressing the heart and obstructing blood flow, which can lead to obstructive shock. Liver laceration causes hemorrhagic shock, simple pneumothorax may cause respiratory distress but not typically obstructive shock directly, and spinal cord injury can cause neurogenic shock.
2. Decompensated shock occurs when the body's compensatory mechanisms fail. Absent radial pulses and dilated pupils are signs of severe shock where the body can no longer maintain perfusion. Cool, clammy skin, tachycardia, pale skin, rapid shallow respirations, and anxiety can be seen in compensated shock as the body tries to maintain homeostasis.

Answer:

1. B. Cardiac tamponade
2. A. A 20 - year - old female with absent radial pulses and dilated pupils