This patient is in hypovolemic shock. This is evidenced by the history of unreplaced fluid losses, the physical findings of tachycardia, and dehydration, and systemic signs of hypoperfusion. Children in compensated hypovolemic shock will be tachycardic with normal blood pressure. Left untreated, the patient will become hypotensive (uncompensated hypovolemic shock). Treatment involves immediate fluid resuscitation.
131
98
16
38.6
102/65
A 5 year old boy is brought to the emergency room by EMS after having diarrhea for 5 days and feeling lethargic for the past 12 hours. He has a history of occasional constipation. Immunizations are incomplete. Family history reveals that all family members are healthy. Social history is unremarkable. Upon examination, the patient appears unwell. The patient is responsive but lethargic. The neurological,respiratory, and skin exams appears normal. The cardiovascular examination shows normal heart sounds. Mucous membranes are dry, pulses are palpable but weak, capillary refill is 5 seconds centrally and peripherally. The abdominal examination reveals diffuse but non-peritonitic tenderness.
Partially Correct
Granado-Villar D, Cunill-De Sautu, Granados A. Acute Gastroenteritis. Pediatrics in Review 2012;33:487
P Yager and N Noviski. Shock. Pediatrics in Review. 2010;31(8)
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Authors
Dr. Theresa Wu
theresa.wu@ahs.ca
Dr. Susan Bannister
Susan.Bannister@ahs.caReviewers
Dr. Marc Zucker
Zucker@cheo.on.ca