Your Patient Is a 45-Year-Old Man Who Has Received Several

Multiple Choice

Your patient is a 45-year-old man who has received several stab wounds to the chest and abdomen. Although bleeding was significant at first, the rate of bleeding had slowed considerably before your arrival. The patient is agitated and confused, pale, diaphoretic, and cool to the touch. He lacks a radial pulse, and his carotid pulse is weak and rapid. Respirations are 28 and shallow. Which of the following is certain with this patient?

A) He is in irreversible shock.
B) He is in decompensated shock.
C) He is in compensated shock.
D) None of the above is certain.