[Verified Answer]: Female patient, 52 years old, 4 days…

Female patient, 52 years old, 4 days post-surgery brought to emergency department with altered mental state and fever. Use the chart to answer the questions. The chart may update as the scenario progresses. History and Physical Assessment Medical/Surgical history: Patient had arthroscopic surgery on right knee 4 days prior to repair meniscus tear. Surgery successful. Patient discharged on same day of surgery. Hospitalized 2 years ago with pneumonia – full recovery. Diagnosed with asthma at age 10, uses inhaler for asthma attacks (2-3 times per year). Social history: Works as financial aid specialist at local college. Married for 22 years. Two children (age 18 and 16). Reports one to two alcoholic drinks per week. No tobacco usage. Family History: Both parents deceased. Father’s medical history is unknown. Mother died of breast cancer (age 62). Medications: Hydrocodone, as needed, for pain post-surgery. Albuterol inhaler for asthma. What is the pathophysiology of the patient having septic shock?