skip to main content

Severe croup — DipIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateMedical EmergenciesSevere croupDipIMC

A 3-year-old is found sitting forward at home with stridor at rest, recession and agitation. Oxygen saturation is 91% and the child becomes worse when handled. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Keep the child calm, give oxygen if tolerated and arrange urgent transfer with minimal distress

Keep the child calm, give oxygen if tolerated and arrange urgent transfer with minimal distress is the best answer because severe upper airway obstruction is worsened by agitation, so calm handling and urgent escalation are priorities. Give unrestricted crystalloid to normalise blood pressure is less appropriate because over-resuscitation can worsen bleeding when haemorrhage is uncontrolled; Use oral analgesia as the main treatment is less appropriate because oral therapy is inadequate or unreliable in major trauma. Immobilise every joint and delay departure for a detailed examination and Defer treatment until a senior hospital doctor reviews the patient 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: JRCALC Guidelines; NICE CKS Croup