Which action would be inappropriate when managing a patient in shock?

Which action would be inappropriate when managing a patient in shock?

• A. Elevating the legs if not contraindicated
• B. Administering oxygen
• C. Keeping the patient warm
• D. Giving the patient a drink

Answer: (D)

In shock, the goal is to support circulation and oxygen delivery while protecting the airway. Elevating the legs, when not contraindicated, helps return blood to the central circulation and can improve preload. Giving oxygen directly improves the amount of oxygen reaching tissues despite reduced perfusion. Keeping the patient warm prevents further heat loss and helps avoid additional vasoconstriction that could worsen perfusion. Giving the patient a drink is inappropriate because a shocked patient may have a compromised or unprotected airway and an impaired swallow reflex, making oral intake a real risk for choking or aspiration. It also doesn’t aid circulation the way IV fluids or other definitive treatments do and can delay appropriate care.

In shock, the goal is to support circulation and oxygen delivery while protecting the airway. Elevating the legs, when not contraindicated, helps return blood to the central circulation and can improve preload. Giving oxygen directly improves the amount of oxygen reaching tissues despite reduced perfusion. Keeping the patient warm prevents further heat loss and helps avoid additional vasoconstriction that could worsen perfusion. Giving the patient a drink is inappropriate because a shocked patient may have a compromised or unprotected airway and an impaired swallow reflex, making oral intake a real risk for choking or aspiration. It also doesn’t aid circulation the way IV fluids or other definitive treatments do and can delay appropriate care.