What is the definition of a hemorrhage?

Hemorrhage is defined as severe bleeding, which can occur either externally or internally. This significant blood loss can lead to a decrease in blood volume, ultimately affecting the body's ability to maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs. In trauma settings, recognizing and addressing hemorrhage promptly is crucial, as it can rapidly result in shock due to hypovolemia (low blood volume).

Effective management of hemorrhage may include controlling the source of bleeding, ensuring that the patient receives appropriate fluid resuscitation, and in some cases, surgical intervention. This definition underpins the importance of quick assessment and intervention in traumatic injuries to prevent more severe consequences, such as organ failure or death due to inadequate blood supply.

While not every bleeding episode leads to shock, severe hemorrhage is a critical factor that is often associated with shock. Therefore, the core understanding of hemorrhage as severe bleeding emphasizes the urgency and impact it has in trauma care contexts.