A patient has been on the medical floor for 1 week after a vaginal hysterectomy.A urinary catheter was inserted.Complete blood cell count results have revealed escalating white blood cell counts.The patient is transferred to the critical care unit when her condition deteriorates.Septic shock is diagnosed.Which of the following is the pathophysiologic mechanism that results in septic shock?
A) Bacterial toxins lead to vasodilation.
B) Increased white blood cells are released to fight invading bacteria.
C) Microorganisms invade organs such as the kidneys and heart.
D) An increase of white blood cells leads to decreased red blood cell production and anemia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The syndrome encompassing severe sepsis and septic shock is a complex systemic response that is initiated when a microorganism enters the body and stimulates the inflammatory or immune system.Shed protein fragments and the release of toxins and other substances from the microorganism activate the plasma enzyme cascades (complement, kinin and kallikrein, coagulation, and fibrinolytic factors), as well as platelets, neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages.

A Patient Has Been on the Medical Floor for 1