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Reasoning Question - Postural Hypotension

 A 65-year-old man complains of dizziness when he stands up quickly from bed. His BP is 130/80 mmHg supine and 100/60 mmHg after standing for 2 minutes.

What is the most likely physiological cause?

A. Increased vagal tone
B. Impaired baroreceptor reflex
C. Increased ADH secretion
D. Increased renin secretion

B. Impaired baroreceptor reflex
Explanation: Normally, standing triggers baroreceptors to increase HR and vasoconstriction. In elderly patients, this reflex may be blunted → orthostatic hypotension.

A trauma patient loses ~20% of blood volume. Initially, BP is maintained.

Which mechanism helps maintain BP early?

A. Decreased sympathetic activity
B. Increased parasympathetic tone
C. Baroreceptor-mediated tachycardia
D. Decreased peripheral resistance

C. Baroreceptor-mediated tachycardia
Explanation: Blood loss ↓ BP → baroreceptors trigger ↑ HR and vasoconstriction to maintain BP.