A nurse is measuring the vital signs of a client he suspects has hypovolemic shock.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Low BP and high pulse rate.
Low BP and low pulse rate.
High BP and high pulse rate.
High BP and low pulse rate.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Hypovolemic shock is characterized by a decrease in blood volume, leading to low blood pressure and compensatory mechanisms such as a high pulse rate. When the body experiences a significant loss of blood or fluid, it attempts to maintain perfusion to vital organs by increasing the heart rate to ensure an adequate blood supply. Low blood pressure and a high pulse rate are classic signs of hypovolemic shock.
Choice B rationale:
A low BP and low pulse rate are not indicative of hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is associated with a rapid and weak pulse rate as the body tries to compensate for decreased blood volume. A low pulse rate could suggest other conditions, such as bradycardia, rather than hypovolemic shock.
Choice C rationale:
High BP and high pulse rate are not typical findings in hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock is characterized by low blood pressure and a high pulse rate as the body attempts to compensate for the reduced blood volume. High blood pressure is more commonly associated with conditions like hypertension, not hypovolemic shock.
Choice D rationale:
High BP and low pulse rate are not consistent with the characteristics of hypovolemic shock. As mentioned earlier, hypovolemic shock is marked by low blood pressure and a high pulse rate due to the body's efforts to maintain adequate perfusion. High blood pressure and a low pulse rate may suggest other medical conditions unrelated to hypovolemic shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A respiratory rate of 9/min and shallow respirations are indicative of hypoventilation, which can lead to an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. This condition results in respiratory acidosis (Choice D). In respiratory acidosis, the arterial pH is decreased (acidic) while the PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) is elevated.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis (Choice B) is characterized by a low PaCO2 and an elevated pH due to hyperventilation. Shallow respirations and a respiratory rate of 9/min do not align with this condition, as it typically involves rapid and deep breathing.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis (Choice C) results from a primary excess of bicarbonate (HCO3-) in the blood and is not associated with the given respiratory patterns. Shallow respirations and a low respiratory rate are more likely to lead to an accumulation of CO2, causing respiratory acidosis (Choice D).
Choice D rationale:
The correct answer is choice D. Shallow respirations and a respiratory rate of 9/min indicate hypoventilation, leading to an accumulation of CO2 in the blood. This condition results in respiratory acidosis, where the arterial pH is decreased. The body's compensatory response is to retain bicarbonate to normalize pH, but this can result in an elevated HCO3- level. The primary acid-base imbalance in this case is respiratory acidosis. .
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Monitor the client for black, tarry stools.
Choice A rationale:
Administering clopidogrel with each meal is not necessary. Clopidogrel can be taken with or without food. The primary concern with clopidogrel is its potential to cause bleeding, so monitoring for signs of bleeding is more critical.
Choice B rationale:
Having suction equipment at the bedside is not specifically required for clients taking clopidogrel. This action is more relevant for clients at risk of airway obstruction or those undergoing procedures that might require suctioning.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the client for black, tarry stools is essential because it can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, a known side effect of clopidogrel. This medication increases the risk of bleeding, so observing for signs of internal bleeding, such as melena (black, tarry stools), is crucial.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating contact precautions is not necessary for clients taking clopidogrel. Contact precautions are typically used to prevent the spread of infections, not for managing clients on antiplatelet therapy.
By understanding these rationales, the nurse can ensure the safe administration and monitoring of clopidogrel therapy.
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