What is a known adverse feature of sodium bicarbonate use in this context?

• A. None
• B. Hypokalemia
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Metabolic acidosis

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that, in this specific prehospital context, sodium bicarbonate is not associated with listed adverse features. While bicarbonate can affect acid-base balance and electrolytes in general—potentially causing metabolic alkalosis, sodium/volume load, hypokalemia, or CO2 retention if ventilation is poor—these risks aren’t identified as concerns in this scenario. The protocol treats its use as not linked to notable adverse effects for the given indication, so the option stating none is the best choice. The other possibilities imply adverse effects that would be relevant in broader contexts, but not here.