The Deteriorating Patient
A patient involved in an MVC initially has BP 112/70, HR 104, and SpO₂ 95%. Thirty minutes later, the patient becomes restless and confused. BP is now 82/46, HR 132, RR 30, skin is cool and pale, and urine output is decreasing. Breath sounds remain equal bilaterally. The abdomen is increasingly distended and firm.
Identify the most likely cause of the patient's deterioration AND the immediate treatment priority.
What is internal hemorrhage causing hypovolemic shock, requiring rapid volume/blood resuscitation and control of the bleeding?