In ATLS, a patient arrives with BP 70/50, HR 140, cold clammy skin, and confusion after blunt abdominal trauma. Estimated blood loss in Class IV haemorrhagic shock is:

• A Up to 750 mL (up to 15% blood volume)
• B More than 2000 mL (>40% blood volume) ✓
• C 750–1500 mL (15–30% blood volume)
• D 1500–2000 mL (30–40% blood volume)

Explanation

ATLS haemorrhagic shock classification: Class I — <750 mL (<15%); Class II — 750-1500 mL (15-30%); Class III — 1500-2000 mL (30-40%); Class IV — >2000 mL (>40%). Class IV is immediately life-threatening and requires massive transfusion protocol activation, urgent surgical haemorrhage control, and resuscitative thoracotomy if indicated. Confusion, cold clammy skin, BP 70/50, and HR >140 are hallmarks of Class IV.

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.