If a child appears to be in shock, giving fluids by mouth is recommended.

If a child appears to be in shock, giving fluids by mouth is recommended.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only sips of water
• D. Only if the child is thirsty

Answer: (B)

In a child who appears to be in shock, the priority is to support breathing and circulation while keeping the airway clear. Giving fluids by mouth can cause choking or aspiration into the lungs, especially if the child is dizzy, vomiting, or faint, and it won’t improve the underlying problem. For this reason, fluids by mouth are not recommended in this situation. Instead, call emergency services, have the child lie flat (or with legs raised if there are no injuries), loosen tight clothing, keep them warm, and monitor breathing and responsiveness until help arrives. The safe approach is to withhold fluids by mouth in shock.

In a child who appears to be in shock, the priority is to support breathing and circulation while keeping the airway clear. Giving fluids by mouth can cause choking or aspiration into the lungs, especially if the child is dizzy, vomiting, or faint, and it won’t improve the underlying problem. For this reason, fluids by mouth are not recommended in this situation. Instead, call emergency services, have the child lie flat (or with legs raised if there are no injuries), loosen tight clothing, keep them warm, and monitor breathing and responsiveness until help arrives. The safe approach is to withhold fluids by mouth in shock.