Lethal Triad of Trauma — FRCA Final MCQ

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EasyTrauma & Emergency AnaesthesiaLethal Triad of TraumaFRCA Final

Hypothermia 34.5°C, pH 7.18, INR 3.2 in trauma patient. This combination is called?

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Correct answer: B — Lethal triad (hypothermia, acidosis, coagulopathy)

Lethal triad: self-perpetuating cycle. Hypothermia impairs clotting; acidosis reduces factor function (>50% at pH 7.0); coagulopathy worsens bleeding → more hypothermia/acidosis. Rationale for damage control surgery.

Reference: ATLS – 2018 – Damage control resuscitation