The document discusses the metabolic response to trauma, which refers to adaptive changes that maintain homeostasis after injury. It outlines the triggers, components, and sequelae of the metabolic response. The components include sympathetic nervous system activation, endocrine responses like increased cortisol and growth hormone, and cytokine responses from interleukins and tumor necrosis factor. Prolonged or accentuated metabolic responses can harm surgical patients by increasing energy needs, reducing immunity, and impairing wound healing. The response can be attenuated by measures like fluid replacement, analgesia, nutritional support, and prompt infection treatment.