Which of the following actions should be included in prehospital management of a child in suspected shock?

• A. Focus only on oxygen
• B. Start transport and establish IV access
• C. Delay fluids until hospital
• D. Administer aspirin

Answer: (B)

In a child with suspected shock, the priority in prehospital care is to begin resuscitation now by securing access and moving toward definitive care. Establishing IV or IO access enables rapid administration of isotonic fluids and medications, as well as ongoing monitoring and reassessment. This upfront access and timely transport help restore circulating volume sooner, which is critical for improving perfusion and outcomes. Oxygen should be given as needed, but it alone won’t correct the underlying deficit in circulation. Delaying fluids until reaching the hospital misses a crucial window for early resuscitation, and giving aspirin in shock offers no benefit and could pose unnecessary risks in children.