How should you manage a child presenting with fever and dehydration on board?

• A. Withhold fluids to avoid vomiting
• B. Wait for the fever to break
• C. Provide fluids if tolerated, monitor for signs of worsening, and seek medical help
• D. Only administer fever-reducing medication

Answer: (C)

When a child has fever and dehydration, the priority is to rehydrate safely and watch for signs that it’s getting worse. Offer small, frequent amounts of oral rehydration solution or clear fluids that the child can sip. If they can keep fluids down, continue this approach and increase fluids as tolerated. If vomiting occurs, give very small sips and don’t push large amounts at once; if dehydration signs persist or worsen, seek medical help promptly.

Key signs to watch for that would push you to escalate care include dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, decreased urination, lethargy or poor responsiveness, and fever that remains high or worsens. If these appear, or if the child cannot keep fluids down, or if there are any concerning underlying conditions, obtain medical help on board or arrange for further care after landing.

Other options fall short because withholding fluids ignores dehydration, waiting for the fever to break delays essential rehydration, and giving fever-reducing meds alone does not address fluid losses.