A patient had a motor vehicle crash and suffered critical injuries to the brainstem. What physiological responses would the healthcare professional expect to see?
A)Prolonged QRS segment
B)Shortened PR interval
C)Pulse and blood pressure changes
D)Fluid overload

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major cardiovascular control center is in the brainstem in the medulla with secondary areas in the hypothalamus, the cerebral cortex, the thalamus, and the complex networks of exciting or inhibiting interneurons (connecting neurons) throughout the brain. The brainstem specifically controls blood pressure and pulse, so a severe injury to this area would manifest with changes in blood pressure and pulse. Changes on the ECG and fluid overload would not occur due to this injury.

A Patient Had a Motor Vehicle Crash and Suffered Critical