Question

How much of a bolus should a child receive in a case of hypovolemic shock?

A) 5 ml/kg
B) 8 ml/kg
C) 20 ml/kg
D) 40 ml/kg

Answer 1

The correct fluid bolus for a child experiencing hypovolemic shock is 20 ml/kg. This fluid replaces lost volume and helps stabilize the child's condition. Treatment involves the rapid administration of isotonic crystalloid fluids.

Step-by-step explanation:

In cases of hypovolemic shock in children, the correct initial fluid bolus is 20 ml/kg. This means that the correct answer to the question is C) 20 ml/kg. Hypovolemic shock can be caused by fluid losses due to severe vomiting or diarrhea, hemorrhage, burns, exposure to toxins, and excessive urine loss. The goal of the fluid bolus is to restore intravascular volume, improve circulation and oxygen delivery, and prevent further deterioration. Therefore, in clinical practice, when a child presents with signs of hypovolemic shock, health care providers administer a rapid fluid bolus of isotonic crystalloid (like normal saline or lactated Ringer's solution) at a dose of 20 ml/kg as an initial treatment to stabilize the child.