A 30-year-old woman is seen in the emergency department for severe vomiting. She has pale skin, tachycardia, and an arterial pressure of 80/50 mm Hg and has trouble walking. What therapy do you recommend to prevent shock?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Infusion of a balanced electrolyte solution is the best choice as it will help to correct any electrolyte imbalances and provide intravascular volume to prevent shock. Packed red cell infusion may be needed if there is severe blood loss, but it is not indicated in this scenario. Antihistamines are not appropriate for treating vomiting and would not prevent shock. Sympathomimetic drugs may increase blood pressure, but they do not provide the necessary volume to prevent shock. Glucocorticoids may be useful for treating certain conditions that cause vomiting, but they are not indicated for preventing shock.

A 30-Year-Old Woman Is Seen in the Emergency Department for Severe