In a scenario with a GCS of 3, 4, and 5 after a mechanical fall, what should you administer?

Prepare for the Los Angeles County Paramedic Accreditation Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get set to ace your exam!

In a scenario where a patient has a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 3, indicating a deep level of unconsciousness, the priority is to ensure adequate blood circulation and perfusion to vital organs, particularly the brain. This often involves administering intravenous fluids to combat potential hypovolemic shock, especially following a mechanical fall where the patient might have sustained internal injuries or blood loss.

Administering 1 liter of normal saline rapidly is appropriate in this situation as it aims to quickly restore intravascular volume, facilitating better blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. Rapid administration can help stabilize the patient’s condition while you assess further and plan definitive care. The choice of 1 liter is based on the urgency of the scenario, considering the patient's severely reduced consciousness and the risks associated with fluctuations in perfusion.

Other options, such as providing less fluid or slower administration, may not suffice in a critical situation where immediate volume resuscitation is necessary to prevent deterioration. Therefore, the selection of 1 liter of normal saline given rapidly is a critical intervention to address the immediate physiological needs of a patient with a GCS of 3 following trauma.

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