Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What deficiencies may a patient experience after fresh water drowning?

1. Hyperkalemia and hypoxia

2. Dehydration and respiratory alkalosis

3. Electrolyte imbalance and hypoxia with respiratory acidosis

4. Hypoglycemia and metabolic acidosis

The correct answer is: Electrolyte imbalance and hypoxia with respiratory acidosis

After experiencing fresh water drowning, a patient may indeed encounter electrolyte imbalances and hypoxia, which are critical factors to consider in their condition. Fresh water is hypotonic compared to the body's fluids, meaning when it is aspirated into the lungs, it can dilute the blood's electrolytes, particularly sodium, leading to a significant imbalance. This imbalance can have profound effects on cellular function and systemic health. In terms of hypoxia, the presence of water in the lungs impairs gas exchange, resulting in decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream. As the patient struggles to breathe, the lungs fill with water instead of air, contributing to hypoxia. Additionally, respiratory acidosis often occurs after drowning because of the inability to expel carbon dioxide effectively due to obstructed airways and inadequate ventilation. The body's inability to maintain proper gas exchange can lead to accumulating CO2, further decreasing blood pH and exacerbating the acidosis. Thus, the combination of electrolyte imbalance, hypoxia, and the development of respiratory acidosis paints a clear picture of the physiological disturbances a patient may face following fresh water drowning, making this option the most accurate representation of the expected deficiencies.