Once a firefighter loses an initial 2 quarts of internal fluid, how long will rehydration take?

Once a firefighter loses an initial 2 quarts of internal fluid, how long will rehydration take?

• A. 5 to 15 minutes
• B. 15 to 30 minutes
• C. 30 to 60 minutes
• D. 1 to 2 hours

Answer: (D)

When you lose about 2 quarts, your body needs time to replace both water and electrolytes and to move fluids back into the bloodstream and then into tissues. The stomach and intestines can only absorb fluids at a limited rate—roughly a liter or so per hour for most people—so it takes time to restore the lost volume. Rehydrating this amount of fluid typically falls in the 1 to 2 hour range, allowing fluids to be absorbed steadily and to reestablish proper plasma volume and electrolyte balance. Drinking too quickly can cause discomfort and electrolyte imbalances, so a gradual, spaced intake is recommended.

When you lose about 2 quarts, your body needs time to replace both water and electrolytes and to move fluids back into the bloodstream and then into tissues. The stomach and intestines can only absorb fluids at a limited rate—roughly a liter or so per hour for most people—so it takes time to restore the lost volume. Rehydrating this amount of fluid typically falls in the 1 to 2 hour range, allowing fluids to be absorbed steadily and to reestablish proper plasma volume and electrolyte balance. Drinking too quickly can cause discomfort and electrolyte imbalances, so a gradual, spaced intake is recommended.