Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

21. The Immune System

Introduction to the Immune System

Anatomy & Physiology

21. The Immune System

Introduction to the Immune System

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Multiple Choice

Why is a measure of serum lactate obtained in the initial assessment of a trauma patient?

To determine the presence of bacterial infection

To evaluate the patient's immune cell count

To measure the level of circulating antibodies

To assess the degree of tissue hypoperfusion and possible shock

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of serum lactate: Serum lactate is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, which occurs when tissues are deprived of adequate oxygen supply. Elevated levels of lactate indicate tissue hypoperfusion, a condition where blood flow to tissues is insufficient.

Recognize the connection to trauma: In trauma patients, tissue hypoperfusion can result from shock, which is a life-threatening condition caused by inadequate blood circulation. Measuring serum lactate helps assess the severity of this condition.

Differentiate serum lactate from other measures: Serum lactate is not used to detect bacterial infections, immune cell counts, or antibody levels. These are assessed using other specific tests, such as cultures, complete blood counts, or immunological assays.

Interpret the clinical significance: Elevated serum lactate levels suggest that the patient may be experiencing shock or tissue hypoperfusion, prompting immediate medical intervention to restore adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Apply this knowledge in patient assessment: During the initial evaluation of a trauma patient, serum lactate measurement provides critical information about the patient's physiological state, guiding treatment decisions to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications.