Which classical sign of cardiac tamponade is defined by the triad of hypotension, jugular venous distention, and muffled heart sounds?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Beck's triad
- Step 1: Beck's triad consists of hypotension with narrowed pulse pressure, jugular venous distention (elevated central venous pressure), and muffled/distant heart sounds.
- Step 2: It signifies elevated intrapericardial pressure restricting diastolic ventricular filling in acute cardiac tamponade.
Answer
Beck's triad.
Why not the others: 'Charcot's triad' describes acute ascending cholangitis (fever, jaundice, RUQ pain); 'Virchow's triad' describes factors contributing to venous thrombosis (stasis, endothelial injury, hypercoagulability); 'Cushing's triad' signals elevated intracranial pressure (hypertension, bradycardia, irregular respiration).
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