In the case of a child in decompensated shock with hypotension, what should be the priority action?

In the situation of a child experiencing decompensated shock with hypotension, the priority action is to initiate fluid resuscitation at the scene. This is crucial because shock in children can rapidly lead to organ failure, and the most immediate concern is restoring adequate circulation to support vital organ function. Fluid resuscitation helps to increase blood volume, improve perfusion, and stabilize blood pressure.

Administering fluids quickly helps to counteract the hypovolemic state that typically accompanies decompensated shock, allowing for better cardiac output and tissue oxygenation. While consideration of airway protection and glucose levels is important in pediatric care, addressing fluid deficit takes precedence in this life-threatening scenario to stabilize the child before other interventions are considered.