FCM Critical Care Practice Exam 2026 - Free Critical Care Practice Questions and Study Guide

In cases of non-blood loss hypotension, intravenous crystalloid resuscitation serves as the primary treatment because it effectively expands the intravascular volume and increases cardiac output. This approach aims to restore adequate tissue perfusion and maintain blood pressure in patients experiencing hypotension without significant hemorrhage or blood loss. Crystalloids are preferred due to their ability to rapidly replenish fluid volume, and they are generally well-tolerated, making them the first line of treatment in such scenarios.

The use of colloids is generally reserved for specific conditions where there is a need for a higher oncotic pressure than can be attained with crystalloids; however, their first-line use in non-blood loss hypotension is not standard practice. Exogenous transfusion typically applies to scenarios involving significant blood loss or anemia; thus, it would not address the hypotension caused by non-blood-related factors. Vasopressors may be necessary in some circumstances to manage severe hypotension or shock, but they are considered adjunctive therapy and not the primary intervention for addressing the volume deficit. Therefore, intravenous crystalloid resuscitation stands out as the optimal first choice for treating non-blood loss hypotension.