Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test

Which of the following is a common complication of delayed resuscitation in trauma cases?

1. Increased blood pressure

2. Bacterial infections

3. Organ failure

4. Improved neurological function

The correct answer is: Organ failure

Delayed resuscitation in trauma cases can lead to a cascade of physiological consequences. One of the most significant risks associated with this delay is organ failure. This occurs because, in trauma situations, the body often experiences significant blood loss, leading to hypovolemic shock. If resuscitation is delayed, tissues do not receive adequate perfusion, which can result in cellular hypoxia and subsequent organ dysfunction. When blood flow to vital organs is compromised, they may begin to fail due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients needed for proper cellular function. Organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart can be particularly susceptible to damage under these circumstances. Over time, if the hypoperfusion is not addressed through timely resuscitation, it may progress to multi-organ failure, which increases mortality rates among trauma patients. In contrast, while bacterial infections can develop following trauma, they are generally not the direct consequence of delayed resuscitation. Instead, they are more related to the body's immune response and the presence of open wounds. Increased blood pressure is not a common outcome of delayed resuscitation; typically, blood pressure would decrease due to shock. Lastly, improved neurological function is unlikely to occur if resuscitation is not performed effectively and in a timely