Utilizing Shock Index for Prediction and Prevention of Hypovolemic Shock in Multiple Trauma Patients at Chumphon Khet Udomsakdi Hospital

Abstract

Abstract: This quasi-experimental one-group pre-posttest study aimed to examine the effects of using the Shock Index (SI) to predict and prevent hypovolemic shock among multiple trauma patients from traffic accidents at Chumphon Khet Udomsakdi Hospital. The study included two participant groups: 32 registered nurses and 35 multiple trauma patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit and the trauma and neurosurgical wards, all of whom met the inclusion criteria during the study period. The intervention comprised education and hands-on training of the nurses in the use and application of the Shock Index. The research instruments consisted of a demographic questionnaire for nurses, a knowledge and practice test on the use of the Shock Index, a practice assessment form, a satisfaction evaluation questionnaire, and the severity of hypovolemic shock report. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and paired t-test to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes. The results revealed that nurses’ mean scores for knowledge and practical skills significantly improved after receiving the education and hands-on training (p < .05). When comparing the severity of hypovolemic shock within the first 24 hours of admission, application of the Shock Index enabled earlier detection of blood loss–related shock, resulting in a statistically significant reduction in shock severity levels (p < .05). All participants rated their satisfaction with the use of the Shock Index at a high level. The findings suggest that the Shock Index can be effectively utilized for early prediction and prevention of hypovolemic shock. Future studies should include a larger sample group of patients with high risk or critical illness in other units.