Question

A diabetic patient presents with dizziness, pale skin, diaphoresis, bradycardia, and a blood pressure of 80/60. The patient is receiving 4L of oxygen via nasal cannula and has an IV in place. What is the next step in management?

1) Administer intravenous fluids
2) Perform an EKG
3) Administer a beta blocker
4) Administer a vasopressor

Answer 1

Administering intravenous fluids is the next step in management for a diabetic patient presenting with symptoms of hypovolemic shock.

Step-by-step explanation:

The next step in management for a diabetic patient presenting with dizziness, pale skin, diaphoresis, bradycardia, and a blood pressure of 80/60 is to administer intravenous fluids.

Hypovolemic shock, caused by fluid losses related to severe vomiting or diarrhea, can lead to the symptoms described. Fluid resuscitation is the first-line treatment for hypovolemic shock, aiming to restore the patient's blood volume and improve blood pressure and perfusion.