Question

Upon arriving at the scene and discovering a seven-year-old boy struck by a car with altered consciousness and signs of shock, what is the recommended initial fluid administration for an EMS provider?

Answer 1

The recommended initial fluid administration for an EMS provider in this situation is intravenous fluids.

Step-by-step explanation:

The recommended initial fluid administration for an EMS provider upon arriving at the scene and discovering a seven-year-old boy struck by a car with altered consciousness and signs of shock is intravenous fluids. In this case, appropriate access and fluids should be available if there is a risk of blood loss of at least 500 ml (or 7 ml/kg of body weight, in children).

Answer 2

The recommended initial fluid administration for an EMS provider in this scenario is isotonic crystalloid solution, such as normal saline (0.9% NaCl).

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of a seven-year-old boy who has been struck by a car and presents with altered consciousness and signs of shock, the priority is to restore circulating blood volume and address hypovolemia. Isotonic crystalloid solutions, like normal saline, are the preferred initial fluids in such situations.

Normal saline is balanced in electrolyte composition and closely resembles the electrolyte concentrations in extracellular fluid. This makes it effective in rapidly expanding intravascular volume and improving tissue perfusion. The recommended initial fluid bolus for pediatric patients in shock is typically 20 mL/kg of isotonic crystalloid.

It's important for EMS providers to administer fluids judiciously and monitor the patient's response closely. Reassessment of the patient's condition and vital signs should guide further fluid administration or other interventions as needed. This approach aligns with the principles of pediatric trauma care and shock management.