What is the priority treatment for a dehydrated infant?

• A. Bolus NS for Rehydration
• B. Oral Rehydration Therapy
• C. Maintain NPO
• D. IV Antibiotics

Answer: (A)

In a dehydrated infant, the first priority is restoring circulating volume quickly to prevent or treat hypovolemic shock. This is done with an isotonic IV fluid bolus—normal saline given at about 20 mL/kg over a short period, with reassessment and repetition up to roughly 60 mL/kg in the first hour if signs of shock persist. Once the infant is perfusing and able to take fluids, you can transition to oral rehydration therapy for mild to moderate dehydration or continue IV fluids if PO intake isn’t possible. Maintaining NPO would delay rehydration, and IV antibiotics aren’t indicated unless there’s a separate infection. That’s why an IV bolus of normal saline is the best initial treatment.