Surgery · Trauma and Emergency Surgery (ATLS, Burns, Abdominal Trauma, Head Injury)

In ATLS haemorrhagic shock classification, a 70 kg adult man has an estimated blood volume of 5000 mL. He is tachycardic (HR 118), BP 100/80 mmHg, RR 22/min, urine output 20 mL/hour, and is anxious. His estimated blood loss falls in which class?

  • A Class I (< 750 mL)
  • B Class III (1500–2000 mL)
  • C Class IV (> 2000 mL)
  • D Class II (750–1500 mL)
Correct answer: D. Class II (750–1500 mL)

Explanation

Class II haemorrhagic shock corresponds to 750–1500 mL blood loss (15–30% EBV): HR 100–120, BP normal to mildly decreased (pulse pressure narrows), RR 20–30, urine output 20–30 mL/hr, and anxiety. Class III (1500–2000 mL, 30–40%) shows BP < 90 and confusion; Class IV (> 2000 mL) shows lethargy/obtundation and BP undetectable without resuscitation. The described patient's parameters fit Class II.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

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