Which of the following management steps is crucial for a hypotensive gunshot victim with signs of shock?

In the case of a hypotensive gunshot victim displaying signs of shock, the rapid infusion of IV fluids is crucial for several reasons. Hypotension in trauma patients usually stems from significant blood loss, which leads to decreased circulating blood volume and inadequate tissue perfusion. Administering IV fluids quickly helps to restore blood volume, improve circulation, and increase blood pressure. This is a vital step in stabilizing the patient, as effective fluid resuscitation can help prevent or mitigate the progression of shock, and it is considered an immediate intervention in such scenarios.

Other management steps, such as administering oxygen therapy, can support oxygen delivery but do not address the underlying issue of hypovolemia directly. Meanwhile, immediate intubation may not be necessary unless there are specific indications of compromised airway or breathing; it is more critical to focus on volume resuscitation initially. Performing routine lab tests is important for overall assessment but does not take priority in the acute management of a patient in shock from trauma. Rapid administration of IV fluids is a fundamental and immediate action that can significantly alter the outcome for the patient in this critical condition.