A 7-year-old child has altered mental status, high fever, and a rash. What should you be most alert for during transport?

In the context of a 7-year-old child presenting with altered mental status, high fever, and a rash, being particularly alert for seizures during transport is crucial. This set of symptoms can indicate serious conditions such as meningitis or a viral exanthem (a rash associated with viral infections), both of which can lead to neurological complications, including seizures.

Seizures may occur as a result of fever (febrile seizures), which are common in children and typically happen when a child's body temperature rises quickly. The altered mental status and high fever heighten the risk of seizures occurring during transport. Additionally, early intervention can be important; recognizing the potential for seizures allows for timely management, including monitoring for any airway concerns and being prepared to ensure the child's safety should a seizure occur.

While other complications like vomiting, combativeness, or respiratory distress could also be possible given the child's symptoms, the likelihood and immediacy of seizures in this scenario—especially when combined with fever and altered mental status—make it the primary concern. Ensuring that the child is stable and adequately monitored during transport is key to addressing possible seizures effectively.