A 26-Year-Old, Previously Healthy Man Is Brought to the Emergency

A 26-year-old, previously healthy man is brought to the emergency department after a high-speed motor vehicle collision.  He became obtunded in the field and required intubation by the paramedics.  The patient also received 2 L of crystalloid on the way to the hospital.  On arrival, blood pressure is 88/52 mm Hg and pulse is 128/min.  Physical examination shows multiple contusions, including to the left side of the forehead, left arm, chest, abdomen, and pelvis, but there is no external hemorrhage.  The trachea is midline.  Breath sounds are present bilaterally and heart sounds are normal.  The abdomen is nondistended and soft to palpation.  Muscle tone is normal.  Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma shows no pericardial or intraperitoneal free fluid.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's hemodynamic instability?

A) Adrenal insufficiency
B) Intracranial hemorrhage
C) Pancreatic injury
D) Pelvic fracture
E) Spinal fracture

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free