A patient diagnosed with Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) is progressing toward Multi-Organ Dysfunction Syndrome (MODS) and is now in a hypermetabolic state. This condition has significant metabolic implications. Which of the following accurately describes the metabolic changes observed in this hypermetabolic state?

A. Insulin resistance, lactic acidosis, and liver dysfunction: These are hallmark features of the hypermetabolic state seen in critically ill patients. Inflammatory mediators cause insulin resistance, impaired tissue oxygenation leads to lactic acidosis, and hepatic stress can result in liver dysfunction, including altered glucose metabolism and coagulation. B. Decreased glucose utilization and improved cellular oxygenation: Glucose utilization often increases due to stress hyperglycemia, while oxygenation is impaired due to cellular hypoxia. C. Reduced metabolic rate and enhanced liver function: The metabolic rate increases in response to systemic inflammation. Liver function is often compromised, not enhanced. D. Increased insulin sensitivity and decreased lactic acid production: The opposite occurs - insulin resistance increases and lactic acid accumulates due to anaerobic metabolism in hypoperfused tissues.