A surgical patient has Class III haemorrhagic shock according to ATLS classification. Which of the following BEST characterises this class?
- A Blood loss 1500-2000 mL; heart rate 120-140/min; decreased blood pressure; confused ✓
- B Blood loss 750-1500 mL; heart rate 100-120/min; normal blood pressure; anxiety
- C Blood loss <750 mL; heart rate <100/min; normal blood pressure; normal mentation
- D Blood loss >2000 mL; heart rate >140/min; very low blood pressure; lethargic
Correct answer: A. Blood loss 1500-2000 mL; heart rate 120-140/min; decreased blood pressure; confused
Explanation
ATLS haemorrhagic shock classification: Class I = <750 mL (<15%), HR <100, BP normal, normal mentation; Class II = 750-1500 mL (15-30%), HR 100-120, BP normal (pulse pressure narrows), anxiety; Class III = 1500-2000 mL (30-40%), HR 120-140, decreased BP, confused — crystalloid and blood transfusion required; Class IV = >2000 mL (>40%), HR >140, very low BP, lethargic/unconscious — immediate life-saving intervention. Class III is the threshold where hypotension appears and blood product resuscitation becomes mandatory.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.