Which condition is characterized by hypotension and bradycardia following spinal injury during trauma?

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Multiple Choice

Which condition is characterized by hypotension and bradycardia following spinal injury during trauma?

Explanation:
When spinal injury interrupts the autonomic nervous system, neurogenic shock can occur. The loss of sympathetic tone causes widespread vasodilation, leading to low systemic vascular resistance and hypotension. At the same time, the heart loses sympathetic stimulation, so the heart rate falls (bradycardia) because the parasympathetic input is unopposed. This combination—hypotension with bradycardia in the context of spinal trauma—is the hallmark of neurogenic shock. You may also see warm, dry skin from the vasodilation, which helps distinguish it from other shock types that are typically associated with cold, clammy skin. Management centers on spinal precautions and supporting perfusion with fluids and, if needed, vasopressors to maintain adequate blood pressure.

When spinal injury interrupts the autonomic nervous system, neurogenic shock can occur. The loss of sympathetic tone causes widespread vasodilation, leading to low systemic vascular resistance and hypotension. At the same time, the heart loses sympathetic stimulation, so the heart rate falls (bradycardia) because the parasympathetic input is unopposed. This combination—hypotension with bradycardia in the context of spinal trauma—is the hallmark of neurogenic shock. You may also see warm, dry skin from the vasodilation, which helps distinguish it from other shock types that are typically associated with cold, clammy skin. Management centers on spinal precautions and supporting perfusion with fluids and, if needed, vasopressors to maintain adequate blood pressure.

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