Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC) Practice Exam

Giving oral fluids to a severely injured patient is avoided primarily to prevent aspiration, particularly in cases where the patient's level of consciousness may be altered. When a patient is profoundly injured, there is a risk that their ability to swallow safely can be compromised. If they cannot protect their airway due to decreased consciousness or other neurological deficits, introducing oral fluids can lead to aspiration—where fluids enter the lungs rather than the stomach.

Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which significantly worsens the patient's condition and prolongs recovery. Standard practice in trauma care is to ensure airway protection before administering any oral intake. This prioritizes the patient's safety and helps to manage potential complications effectively.

Other considerations, such as recovery from surgery, risk of dehydration, and wound healing, while important in the context of overall care, do not specifically address the immediate dangers posed by compromised airway reflexes in severely injured patients. Thus, preventing aspiration remains the critical reason for withholding oral fluids in these situations.