Question

Infant has vomiting and diarrhea, RR 40, pulses are rapid and weak, cool extremities, BP 85/65, glucose 30

you administer oxygen 100% and start an IV

what treatment is most appropriate for this infant?

Answer 1

Intravenous fluids are the most appropriate initial treatment for an infant exhibiting symptoms of hypovolemic shock due to vomiting and diarrhea, along with close monitoring and correction of hypoglycemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate treatment for an infant with vomiting and diarrhea, rapid and weak pulses, cool extremities, low blood pressure (85/65), and hypoglycemia (glucose 30), is the administration of intravenous fluids to address hypovolemic shock. After starting oxygen administration and IV access, you should rapidly initiate fluid resuscitation with isotonic crystalloids (e.g., normal saline or Ringer's lactate). Given the infant's compromised condition, it is critical to monitor vital signs closely, correct hypoglycemia with IV dextrose, and possibly administer vasopressors (like dopamine, epinephrine, or norepinephrine) under intensive care if the blood pressure does not respond to volume repletion.