This article discusses the clinical features of haemorrhagic shock and the strategies used to manage the condition, focusing on the presenting symptoms, classifications, compensatory mechanisms, physiological changes and nursing interventions. Haemorrhagic shock is a condition of reduced tissue perfusion as a result of the inadequate delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for cellular function. The condition is secondary to large-volume blood loss, often associated with trauma or complications following surgical or medical procedures. Identifying and stopping the source of the uncontrolled bleeding is essential. Because of the life-threatening nature of the condition, it is important that haemorrhagic shock is identified promptly and appropriate management is commenced without delay.
Nursing Standard. 30, 1, 51-60. doi: 10.7748/ns.30.1.51.e9955
Correspondence Peer reviewAll articles are subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software.
Received: 02 February 2015
Accepted: 10 June 2015
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