Which condition results in paralysis of the intestinal muscles and can lead to a functional blockage?

Paralytic ileus is a condition characterized by the paralysis of the intestinal muscles, which disrupts the normal peristalsis necessary for the movement of contents through the digestive tract. This paralysis can result in a functional blockage of the intestines, preventing regular bowel movement and causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.

The condition can occur due to various reasons, including surgical procedures, medications, or other factors that affect the nervous system’s control over intestinal motility. Understanding paralytic ileus is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it requires specific interventions to manage and prevent complications associated with prolonged intestinal inactivity, such as bowel obstruction or perforation.

The other conditions listed do not directly cause paralysis of intestinal muscles. Hypovolemic shock mainly refers to a significant reduction in blood volume, affecting organ perfusion but not specifically leading to paralysis of the intestines. Atelectasis is a condition involving the collapse of all or a part of the lung, impacting respiratory function rather than intestinal motility. Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can lead to respiratory distress, but it does not directly cause paralysis of the intestinal muscles. Thus, paralytic ileus stands out as the correct answer regarding its specific impact on intestinal