Massive blood loss in trauma patients

Preview An injured and bleeding patient who is pale, confused, hypotensive, and anuric is an obvious candidate for transfusion to counteract hemorrhagic shock. However, not all patients with shock have such classic signs, at least not until hemodynamic compromise becomes severe. The authors summarize the basic principles of patient evaluation and care in emergency situations. They also describe some adverse consequences of massive transfusions and present tips on how to avoid or minimize them.