Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

In a trauma case with a head lac, tachycardia, and low blood pressure, what is the fluid of choice?

1. Lactated Ringer's

2. Normal Saline KVO

3. Dextrose in Water

4. Ringer's Solution

The correct answer is: Normal Saline KVO

In trauma cases presenting with a head laceration, tachycardia, and low blood pressure, the primary concern is managing hypovolemic shock and maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion. Normal Saline is the fluid of choice in this situation because it is isotonic and helps expand the intravascular volume effectively. Normal Saline is particularly useful in rapidly restoring fluid volume without the risk of fluid overload or complications associated with hypotonic solutions. Additionally, in cases of trauma, especially with head injuries, maintaining appropriate sodium levels is crucial for preventing complications related to cerebral edema. While Lactated Ringer's and Ringer's Solution are also acceptable fluids, they contain additional electrolytes which may not be necessary in the acute setting, and the lactate in Lactated Ringer's could potentially complicate metabolic acidosis if the patient is severely hypotensive. Dextrose in Water is inadequate for volume resuscitation in this context, as it does not provide the necessary electrolyte balance or volume expansion required for trauma management. Using Normal Saline allows for quick stabilization of hemodynamic status while providing a baseline electrolyte solution suitable for traumatic injuries.