You are volunteering in the medical tent of a road race on a hot, humid day. A runner who has collapsed on the road is brought in with the following symptoms: sunken eyes, a body temperature of 100F, and a complaint of dizziness while sitting to have his blood pressure taken (which subsides upon his lying down). These are signs of a fluid volume deficit. Which of the following treatments should be carried out first?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Give him an electrolyte solution by mouth. This is the first step because the runner is showing signs of dehydration, indicated by sunken eyes and dizziness. Providing electrolyte solution by mouth helps replenish lost fluids and essential electrolytes. Option A, offering water by mouth, may not be enough to address the electrolyte imbalance. Option B, cooling the body, is not the priority when the primary concern is fluid deficit. Option C, giving a transfusion of FFP, is unnecessary and not indicated for fluid volume deficit. Administering an electrolyte solution addresses the immediate need for rehydration and helps restore the body's electrolyte balance efficiently.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serum potassium 2.8 mEq/L. A low potassium level (hypokalemia) can result from diuretic use, leading to heart rhythm disturbances. Potassium is crucial for proper heart function. Choice A, serum sodium 135 mEq/L, is within normal range and not indicative of a potassium imbalance. Choice C, serum calcium 8.5 mg/dL, and choice D, serum phosphate 3.5 mg/dL, are not directly related to potassium imbalance. Monitoring serum potassium levels is vital in patients on diuretics to prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Liver failure. The symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, and decreased albumin levels are indicative of liver failure. Liver failure can lead to decreased albumin synthesis, causing fluid accumulation in the body leading to swelling in the legs. Chronic kidney disease (A) typically presents with other symptoms like elevated creatinine levels. Congestive heart failure (C) usually presents with symptoms like shortness of breath and edema, but not typically low albumin levels. Hypothyroidism (D) can cause fatigue and weight gain, but it does not directly lead to decreased albumin levels and leg swelling.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Ideal body weight is the weight associated with optimal health, not a fixed standard or subjective feeling.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Protein-calorie malnutrition manifests as poor wound healing, apathy, and edema due to insufficient protein and energy.