What is the first-line treatment for neurogenic shock?

What is the first-line treatment for neurogenic shock?

• A. Spinal immobilization
• B. Oxygen
• C. Blanket
• D. If C3-C5 injured, use BVM

Answer: (B)

Neurogenic shock stems from a spinal cord injury that causes loss of sympathetic vascular tone, leading to dangerous widespread vasodilation and hypotension. The immediate priority is ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues, so giving supplemental oxygen to keep the patient’s oxygen saturation above about 94% is the first-line step. This supports tissue perfusion and prevents hypoxia while other treatments are arranged. Spinal immobilization remains essential to prevent further injury, but it does not directly address oxygenation or perfusion. A blanket is supportive but not a treatment for shock, and bag-valve-mask ventilation is necessary only if the patient cannot be ventilated adequately.

Neurogenic shock stems from a spinal cord injury that causes loss of sympathetic vascular tone, leading to dangerous widespread vasodilation and hypotension. The immediate priority is ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues, so giving supplemental oxygen to keep the patient’s oxygen saturation above about 94% is the first-line step. This supports tissue perfusion and prevents hypoxia while other treatments are arranged. Spinal immobilization remains essential to prevent further injury, but it does not directly address oxygenation or perfusion. A blanket is supportive but not a treatment for shock, and bag-valve-mask ventilation is necessary only if the patient cannot be ventilated adequately.