A client is admitted to the surgical intensive care unit following the removal of a large portion of the intestines due to a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The client begins to display signs of septic shock and a sepsis protocol is initiated. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the plan of care?
Maintain strict intake and output.
Assess warmth of extremities.
Keep head of bed raised 45 degrees.
Monitor blood glucose level.
The Correct Answer is A
Septic shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by a severe infection that leads to systemic inflammation, organ dysfunction, and low blood pressure. Maintaining strict intake and output monitoring is essential to assess the client's fluid balance and response to interventions. It allows the nurse to closely monitor the client's urine output, which is a crucial indicator of renal perfusion and overall organ function.
Monitoring urine output helps the nurse assess the adequacy of tissue perfusion and the client's response to fluid resuscitation. A decrease in urine output can be an early sign of worsening organ dysfunction and a need for further interventions.
While assessing the warmth of extremities is important for evaluating peripheral perfusion, maintaining strict intake and output monitoring takes priority as it provides more comprehensive information about the client's overall fluid status.
Raising the head of the bed 45 degrees (semi-Fowler's position) can help optimize respiratory function and reduce the risk of aspiration, but it is not the most important intervention in this case.
Monitoring blood glucose levels is important, as hyperglycemia can be associated with sepsis. However, in the context of septic shock, maintaining strict intake and output monitoring takes precedence as it directly assesses the client's fluid balance and response to interventions.
It's crucial to note that the management of septic shock requires a multidisciplinary approach, and other interventions, such as administering appropriate antibiotics, initiating fluid resuscitation, and addressing the underlying source of infection, should also be implemented in a timely manner.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A.Protect the site from getting wet during bathing. While it is important to avoid prolonged soaking, gentle rinsing with water is usually allowed. Complete avoidance of water is not typically necessary.Gentle bathing is important for hygiene.
B.Gently patting the skin dry after rinsing with water is a good practice as it helps to minimize friction and irritation to the sensitive skin. Rubbing or scrubbing the skin should be avoided.
C. Applying moisturizers to prevent dry skin can be beneficial for overall skin health, but it is important to consult with the healthcare team and follow specific instructions regarding the use of moisturizers during radiation therapy. Certain types of moisturizers or creams may interfere with the radiation treatment or cause skin irritation. Frequent application is not always necessary. Over-hydration can soften the skin and increase vulnerability.
D.Using a sponge to debride the affected area is not recommended during radiation therapy. The skin in the radiation treatment field is already sensitive and prone to damage, and using a sponge for debridement can further traumatize the skin. It is important to avoid any abrasive or rough handling of the treated skin.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect- The left lateral position might not provide enough lung expansion for a client in respiratory distress.
B) Incorrect- Reverse Trendelenburg (head of bed elevated, foot of bed lowered) might not provide enough lung expansion and could exacerbate respiratory distress.
C) Correct- The High-Fowler's position, where the client is sitting upright at a 90-degree angle or as upright as tolerated, helps to improve lung expansion, reduce pressure on the diaphragm, and promote optimal oxygenation. This position is commonly used for clients with respiratory distress.
D) Incorrect- The supine position may worsen pulmonary congestion and compromise lung expansion in clients with pulmonary edema.

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