You are volunteering in the medical tent of a road race on a hot, humid day. A runner who has collapsed on the road is brought in with the following symptoms: sunken eyes, a body temperature of 100°F, and a complaint of dizziness while sitting to have his blood pressure taken (which subsides upon his lying down). These are signs of a fluid volume deficit. Which of the following treatments should be carried out first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fluid volume deficit results in postural hypotension (dizziness while upright) due to decreased blood volume. Sunken eyes and elevated temperature also point to a fluid volume deficit. The most important action to take is to replace fluid; however, pure water would be a mistake, since without accompanying electrolytes such as sodium, hyponatremia (water retention and a decrease in serum osmolality) could result. Thus, an oral electrolyte solution is recommended; in more severe cases, an IV would be appropriate.

You Are Volunteering in the Medical Tent of a Road