A charge nurse is providing teaching to a newly licensed nurse who is caring for a client who has postpartum hemorrhagic shock.
Which of the following statements should the charge nurse make?
Manifestations of shock might not appear until a client loses 20% of their blood volume.
Hemorrhagic shock will cause an increase in a client's serum pH.
The most accurate indication of organ perfusion is a client's urine output.
An infusion of 1 mL of lactated Ringers is given for each 1 mL of blood loss.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C
Choice A rationale: Clinical manifestations of hypovolemic shock typically begin when approximately 15% to 30% of total blood volume is lost. In pregnancy, total blood volume increases by about 30% to 50%, so signs may be masked initially. However, waiting until 20% loss to expect symptoms is misleading. Tachycardia, pallor, and hypotension may appear earlier. Therefore, this statement underestimates the sensitivity of maternal physiology to blood loss and is not scientifically accurate.
Choice B rationale: Hemorrhagic shock leads to tissue hypoperfusion and anaerobic metabolism, resulting in lactic acid accumulation and metabolic acidosis. This causes a decrease in serum pH, not an increase. Normal serum pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45. In shock states, pH often drops below 7.35, indicating acidosis. An increase in pH would suggest alkalosis, which is not consistent with the pathophysiology of hemorrhagic shock. Thus, this statement contradicts basic acid-base science.
Choice C rationale: Urine output is a direct and sensitive indicator of renal perfusion and overall organ perfusion. The kidneys require adequate blood flow to maintain glomerular filtration. In shock, decreased cardiac output reduces renal perfusion, leading to oliguria. Normal urine output is ≥30 mL/hr. Persistent reduction below this threshold reflects compromised perfusion. Unlike blood pressure or heart rate, urine output is less influenced by compensatory mechanisms, making it a reliable marker of end-organ function.
Choice D rationale: Fluid resuscitation in hemorrhagic shock typically involves a 3:1 ratio of isotonic crystalloid (e.g., lactated Ringer’s) to blood loss volume. This accounts for the distribution of fluid into the interstitial and intracellular compartments. Administering only 1 mL of fluid per 1 mL of blood loss is insufficient to restore intravascular volume. The 3:1 replacement rule is based on fluid dynamics and vascular compartmentalization. Therefore, this statement misrepresents standard resuscitation protocols.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
The client is most likely experiencing an ectopic pregnancy. Here's why:
- Symptoms: The client presents with intermittent vaginal bleeding and dull left lower quadrant abdominal pain, which are common symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy.
- Physical Examination: Tenderness upon palpation in the left lower quadrant and an enlarged uterus consistent with 8 weeks of gestation are also indicative of an ectopic pregnancy.
Actions to Take
- Perform ultrasound: To confirm the diagnosis and locate the ectopic pregnancy.
- Administer IV fluids: To stabilize the client and prepare for potential surgical intervention.
Parameters to Monitor
- Vaginal bleeding: To assess the severity and progression of the bleeding.
- Blood pressure: To monitor for signs of internal bleeding or hemodynamic instability.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Variable decelerations are associated with umbilical cord compression, not placenta previa. In placenta previa, the placenta covers the cervical os, but it does not typically cause variable decelerations on fetal monitoring.
Choice B rationale
Painless vaginal bleeding is a hallmark sign of placenta previa. This occurs because the placenta is located near or over the cervical os, leading to bleeding when the cervix dilates or effaces.
Choice C rationale
A rigid abdomen is more indicative of placental abruption, where the placenta detaches prematurely from the uterine wall, causing pain and a tense abdomen, not typically seen in placenta previa.
Choice D rationale
Uterine tachysystole is characterized by excessive uterine contractions and is not a clinical finding related to placenta previa. Tachysystole often results from excessive oxytocin use or other uterine stimulants.
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