What type of fluids should be administered to a patient in shock with suspected cardiopathology?

Prepare for the USAF EMS Protocol Practical Exam with comprehensive quizzes. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations to enhance your learning. Ace your exam!

The correct choice for a patient in shock with suspected cardiopathology is the administration of 250 mL of Lactated Ringer's (LR) or Normal Saline (NS) IV/IO, with a repeat as necessary, up to a maximum of 1 liter. This option is appropriate because when treating shock, it is crucial to rapidly restore intravascular volume to improve perfusion and support organ function. LR and NS are isotonic fluids that help to replenish the volume and expand the intravascular compartment effectively.

In cases of cardiogenic shock, the type of fluid administered should ideally be administered judiciously to avoid overloading the heart. Yet, initial fluid resuscitation is often beneficial, especially if there are symptoms of hypovolemia. Administering 250 mL allows for controlled and measured resuscitation, and the option to repeat the dosage as needed offers flexibility in managing the patient's hemodynamic status.

Other fluid options, such as D5W (5% dextrose in water), are not suitable for initial shock management because they are hypotonic and do not effectively expand intravascular volume. They can lead to complications such as cellular swelling and do not provide the necessary volume expansion for a patient

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy