HYPOVOLEMIC SHOCK AND THE CRITICAL ROLE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH PRACTITIONERS

By Dr Peter Onoja

Introduction

Hypovolemic shock is one of the most critical medical emergencies faced in both rural and urban health settings. It occurs when a person loses a significant amount of blood or fluids, leading to a sharp drop in blood pressure and poor oxygen delivery to tissues and vital organs. In Nigeria and many developing countries, community health practitioners are on the frontlines of care, especially in remote areas where hospitals may be far away.


Understanding Hypovolemic Shock

Hypovolemic shock is categorized into two types:  

- *Hemorrhagic shock:* caused by blood loss (e.g. trauma, internal bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage).  

- *Non-hemorrhagic shock:* caused by fluid loss (e.g. dehydration, burns, severe vomiting/diarrhea).


Common Causes in Nigeria Include:

- Road traffic accidents  

- Obstetric complications (e.g. prolonged labor, ruptured uterus)  

- Gastrointestinal diseases  

- Malaria-related anemia and dehydration  

- Childhood diarrhea  


Signs & Symptoms to Watch For:

- Pale or bluish skin  

- Rapid, weak pulse  

- Cold extremities  

- Low or undetectable blood pressure  

- Reduced urine output


- Limited recognition of their role by some stakeholders


Conclusion:

Hypovolemic shock kills quickly if not addressed. But with skilled, equipped, and supported community health practitioners, many lives can be saved before reaching hospital level. It’s time Nigeria invests more in empowering its CHPs to respond to emergencies and reduce preventable deaths.



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