PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the classic triad of signs and symptoms related to a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)?

1. Chest pain, syncope, hypotension

2. Abdominal pain, back pain, fever

3. Abdominal pain, pulsatile abdominal mass, hypotension

4. Nausea, vomiting, hypotension

The correct answer is: Abdominal pain, pulsatile abdominal mass, hypotension

The classic triad of signs and symptoms associated with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) includes abdominal pain, a pulsatile abdominal mass, and hypotension. Abdominal pain is typically severe and sudden, often described as tearing or ripping, and can be located in the abdomen or radiate to the back. A pulsatile abdominal mass is indicative of the presence of the aneurysm itself; when it ruptures, the mass may be palpable in conjunction with the pain. Hypotension occurs due to significant blood loss into the retroperitoneal space or directly into the peritoneal cavity, leading to a decrease in circulating blood volume and perfusion. This triad is critical for clinicians to recognize, as timely diagnosis and intervention are necessary to manage a ruptured AAA effectively, making the identification of these symptoms crucial in emergency situations. The other options represent different clinical scenarios that may not align with the classic presentation of a ruptured AAA.