What is the triad of trauma?

• A. Coagulopathy, acidosis, hypothermia
• B. Hypoxemia, hypercapnia, tachycardia
• C. Hypertension, tachycardia, fever
• D. Hyperglycemia, dehydration, leukocytosis

Answer: (A)

In severe trauma, the dangerous trio is coagulopathy, acidosis, and hypothermia. Bleeding lowers perfusion, leading to tissue hypoxia and metabolic acidosis from lactate buildup. Hypothermia, often from exposure and cold resuscitation fluids, directly impairs the coagulation cascade and platelet function, which worsens bleeding. That worsening bleeding further drives acidosis and keeps the patient cold, creating a vicious cycle that increases mortality if not interrupted. Managing this requires rapid hemorrhage control, warming measures (including warmed IV fluids and blood products), and resuscitation aimed at restoring perfusion to correct acidosis, plus strategies like early antifibrinolytic therapy when appropriate.