When caring for an infant or child who is in compensated shock, you should:

When caring for an infant or child who is in compensated shock, you should:

• A. Wait for decompensation before starting fluids
• B. Administer high-flow oxygen only
• C. Establish IV or IO access en route to the hospital
• D. Insert a central line

Answer: (C)

In compensated shock, the goal is to secure rapid vascular access so you can assess perfusion and begin resuscitation during transport. Establishing IV or IO access en route to the hospital is the best choice because it provides a fast, reliable route to give fluids and medications as needed, and IO access is especially useful when IV access is challenging in young children. Central line placement takes more time and isn’t necessary or ideal in the prehospital setting for initial stabilization. Relying on oxygen alone doesn’t address the underlying volume deficit, and delaying fluids until decompensation occurs can worsen outcomes. Establish IV or IO access early to support ongoing perfusion during transport.

In compensated shock, the goal is to secure rapid vascular access so you can assess perfusion and begin resuscitation during transport. Establishing IV or IO access en route to the hospital is the best choice because it provides a fast, reliable route to give fluids and medications as needed, and IO access is especially useful when IV access is challenging in young children. Central line placement takes more time and isn’t necessary or ideal in the prehospital setting for initial stabilization. Relying on oxygen alone doesn’t address the underlying volume deficit, and delaying fluids until decompensation occurs can worsen outcomes. Establish IV or IO access early to support ongoing perfusion during transport.