ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) Phlebotomy Technician Certification Practice Exam

When dealing with a shock victim who appears not fully conscious, giving fluids can be dangerous and should be avoided due to several reasons. First, if the victim is not fully conscious, there is a risk of choking, as they may not be able to swallow properly or protect their airway. Providing fluids in this situation could lead to aspiration, where the liquid enters the lungs instead of the stomach, which can cause further complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

In contrast, keeping the victim warm, monitoring their breathing, and lying them down are appropriate actions to take in this scenario. Keeping the victim warm helps prevent further heat loss, supporting their body's fight against shock. Monitoring breathing is crucial because it allows for the detection of any respiratory issues or deterioration in their condition. Lying the victim down can help improve circulation to vital organs, depending on the specific type of shock.

Overall, while it's essential to address dehydration and fluid loss in shock victims, the immediate concerns with providing fluids outweigh the benefits when a patient is not fully conscious.