What is the potential blood loss into the tissue from a fractured femur in an adult patient?

The correct answer is based on the understanding of the anatomy and physiology of bone injuries, particularly for a femoral fracture in adults. A fractured femur can lead to significant internal bleeding due to the large blood vessels that run near and within the thigh, including the femoral artery and various branches.

In adults, when there is a fracture of the femur, the potential volume of blood that can accumulate in the surrounding tissue can range from 1000 to 2000 mL. This volume includes both the blood loss into the tissue and the potential for hemothorax or other complications, as the fracture can disrupt vascular structures.

Understanding the volume of potential blood loss is important for emergency medical personnel as it helps in evaluating the severity of the injury and prioritizing treatment, including fluid resuscitation and surgical intervention if necessary. This volume is considerable and can lead to hypovolemic shock if not managed promptly.