North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

In Class IV hemorrhage, what happens to the blood pressure?

1. It remains normal

2. It drops dangerously low

3. It becomes elevated

4. It fluctuates rapidly

The correct answer is: It drops dangerously low

In Class IV hemorrhage, which is characterized by a significant loss of blood volume, the body's response typically involves a drastic drop in blood pressure. When approximately 40% or more of blood volume is lost, compensatory mechanisms such as increased heart rate and vasoconstriction can initially help maintain blood pressure; however, these mechanisms are often insufficient to counteract the severity of the fluid loss. As the condition progresses, the inability to maintain adequate perfusion leads to hypotension, which is a defining feature of this class of hemorrhage. Furthermore, the drop in blood pressure can lead to decreased perfusion of vital organs, potentially resulting in shock. This is critical for understanding patient assessment and management in emergency medical situations, as recognizing the signs of Class IV hemorrhage is vital for initiating timely and effective treatment.