Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

A patient in shock is at increased risk for coagulopathy primarily due to tissue hypoperfusion and the potential activation of the clotting cascade. When shock occurs, blood circulation becomes compromised, leading to inadequate perfusion of tissues. This insufficient blood supply can result in cellular hypoxia and ischemia, triggering a series of physiological responses.

One of the body's responses to hypoxia is the activation of the coagulation cascade, which is intended to promote clot formation in order to minimize blood loss. However, in a state of shock, this activation can become dysregulated. The excessive activation of coagulation factors can lead to the consumption of platelets and clotting factors, resulting in a coagulopathy characterized by disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and increased risk of bleeding.

Additionally, the inflammatory response that accompanies shock can further amplify coagulopathy and complicate the hemostatic system. Understanding this relationship is crucial for trauma nurses, as early recognition and treatment of coagulopathy can significantly impact patient outcomes.