What does the term exsanguination refer to?

Exsanguination refers specifically to the process of losing blood to the point where life is threatened or death occurs. It is characterized by significant blood loss, often due to injury or a medical condition that leads to severe hemorrhaging. This term is particularly used in medical and clinical contexts to describe situations where the body has lost a critical amount of blood, resulting in symptoms such as shock or collapse. The focus on blood loss makes this definition distinct from other states such as fluid retention, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance, which involve different bodily functions and conditions. Thus, understanding exsanguination emphasizes the importance of blood volume and circulation in maintaining physiological stability.