What finding would indicate significant internal hemorrhage after skeletal trauma?

Increased heart rate is a critical finding that can indicate significant internal hemorrhage after skeletal trauma. When there is substantial blood loss due to trauma, the body compensates for the decrease in blood volume and pressure by increasing the heart rate. This physiological response, known as tachycardia, occurs as the heart works harder to maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs in the face of potential hypovolemia.

While normal blood pressure might seem indicative of stability, it does not rule out the possibility of significant internal hemorrhage, especially in the early stages when compensatory mechanisms are still effective. Similarly, low blood sugar is typically unrelated to blood volume status or internal bleeding and would not be a distinguishing indicator in this context. Hematocrit elevation generally suggests dehydration or a concentrated blood volume, rather than active hemorrhage, as the body typically exhibits a low hematocrit in the setting of significant blood loss.

Thus, the increased heart rate is a reliable and easily measurable sign that prompts further investigation for possible internal bleeding following skeletal injuries.