Hypovolaemic arrest from GI bleed — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: A — Start ALS while expediting transfer for blood products and haemorrhage control

Start ALS while expediting transfer for blood products and haemorrhage control is the best answer because hypovolaemic arrest has poor response unless bleeding and circulating volume are addressed. Give unrestricted crystalloid to normalise blood pressure is less appropriate because over-resuscitation can worsen bleeding when haemorrhage is uncontrolled; Defer treatment until a senior hospital doctor reviews the patient is less appropriate because pre-hospital clinicians must treat immediate threats within scope. Immobilise every joint and delay departure for a detailed examination and Use oral analgesia as the main treatment are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines; JRCALC Guidelines