NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamMedical EmergenciesEasy
An EMT is assessing a 6-month-old infant who is lethargic and has a sunken fontanelle, dry mucous membranes, and decreased urine output. What is the most appropriate initial intervention?
- AProvide high-flow oxygen via non-rebreather mask.
- BAdminister intravenous fluids.
- CAdminister oral rehydration solution.
- DInitiate bag-valve mask ventilations.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Provide high-flow oxygen via non-rebreather mask.
The infant is showing signs of severe dehydration and lethargy, indicating potential respiratory compromise. The most immediate and universally appropriate initial intervention for any pediatric patient with altered mental status or signs of distress is to ensure adequate oxygenation.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Intravenous fluids are crucial for severe dehydration, but establishing an IV may take time; ensuring adequate oxygenation is the immediate priority.
- C. Oral rehydration is appropriate for mild to moderate dehydration in a conscious infant, but not for a lethargic infant with severe dehydration.
- D. Bag-valve mask ventilations are indicated if the infant has inadequate breathing, but initial management focuses on oxygenation if breathing is present but compromised.
Pediatric Dehydration Management
Management of fluid loss in infants and children, ranging from oral rehydration for mild cases to IV fluids for severe cases, always prioritizing oxygenation.
- Sunken fontanelle, dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output are signs of dehydration.
- Lethargy indicates severe dehydration or other systemic compromise.
- Oxygenation is a primary intervention for any pediatric distress.
Memory trick: Oxygen First, Fluids Next