Clinical and Biochemical Predictors of Outcome in Polytrauma Patients with Hypovolemic Shock: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Polytrauma remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, particularly among young adults. Hypovolemic shock is the most common preventable cause of early death in trauma patients. Early identification of predictors of outcome in polytrauma patients is essential for timely intervention and improved survival. Objectives: To identify clinical and biochemical predictors of outcome in polytrauma patients presenting with hypovolemic shock. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 50 polytrauma patients with hypovolemic shock admitted to the General Surgery Department of a tertiary care Government Hospital. Demographic characteristics, injury profile, physiological parameters, laboratory investigations including serum lactate levels, and injury severity scores were recorded. Outcomes were categorized as survival or mortality. Statistical analysis was performed to determine associations between clinical variables and outcomes. Results: Among the 50 patients included in the study, 40 patients (80%) survived while 10 patients (20%) died. Higher admission lactate levels, lower lactate clearance, higher injury severity scores, and lower systolic blood pressure at admission were associated with poorer outcomes. Conclusion: Serum lactate levels, lactate clearance, and injury severity scores are important predictors of outcome in polytrauma patients presenting with hypovolemic shock. Early identification of these predictors may assist clinicians in identifying high-risk patients and guiding aggressive resuscitative strategies.