ATP 4-02.11 – First Aid Practice Exam 2026 - Free First Aid Practice Questions and Study Guide

Hyponatremia from water overload is dangerous because diluting the sodium in the blood can cause brain swelling and serious neurologic problems. The first aid approach is to get the person to professional medical care urgently. Eating salty foods or snacks provides a quick sodium input to help raise the serum sodium level, which is why this option is favored in this scenario. Drinking large amounts of water would worsen the condition, and diuretics or simply ignoring symptoms are not appropriate first-aid responses. So the best immediate step is to have salty foods and evacuate to medical care, with emergency services contacted and the person monitored until help arrives.