A nurse is providing care for a postoperative client. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as indicating the development of postoperative shock?
The client has metabolic alkalosis and warm extremities
The client develops bradycardia and bradypnea
The client has hypotension and is confused
The client has hypertension and anuria
The Correct Answer is C
A. The client has metabolic alkalosis and warm extremities: Metabolic alkalosis and warm extremities are not typically indicative of postoperative shock. Metabolic alkalosis may be caused by excessive vomiting or prolonged gastric suctioning, but it is not a hallmark sign of shock. Warm extremities may suggest adequate peripheral perfusion rather than impaired perfusion seen in shock.
B. The client develops bradycardia and bradypnea: Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and bradypnea (slow respiratory rate) may occur as compensatory mechanisms in certain types of shock, such as neurogenic shock. However, they are not specific indicators of postoperative shock. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and tachypnea (rapid respiratory rate) are more common findings in most types of shock, including postoperative shock.
C. The client has hypotension and is confused: Hypotension (low blood pressure) and confusion are classic signs of shock, including postoperative shock. Hypotension indicates inadequate perfusion of vital organs, while confusion may result from cerebral hypoperfusion. Altered mental status, such as confusion, is a significant neurological manifestation of shock.
D. The client has hypertension and anuria: Hypertension (high blood pressure) and anuria (decreased urine output) are not typical manifestations of postoperative shock. Hypertension may occur in certain conditions that can lead to shock, such as septic shock, during the compensatory phase. However, it is not a primary sign of shock. Anuria may occur in cases of severe hypovolemic shock but is not specific to postoperative shock.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Distributive shock occurs due to loss of myocardial contractility": This statement is incorrect. Distributive shock is not primarily caused by loss of myocardial contractility. Instead, distributive shock is characterized by widespread vasodilation, which leads to inadequate tissue perfusion despite normal or high cardiac output.
B. "Distributive shock occurs due to loss of blood volume": This statement is inaccurate. Distributive shock is not primarily caused by loss of blood volume. While hypovolemia (loss of blood volume) can lead to shock, distributive shock specifically involves excessive vasodilation, resulting in a relative hypovolemia due to pooling of blood in the expanded vascular bed.
C. "Distributive shock occurs due to systemic vasodilation": This statement is correct. Distributive shock, also known as vasodilatory shock, occurs due to widespread vasodilation of the systemic vasculature. This vasodilation leads to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance, which results in the redistribution of blood flow away from vital organs and tissues, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion and shock.
D. "Distributive shock occurs due to increased systemic vascular resistance": This statement is incorrect. Distributive shock is characterized by decreased systemic vascular resistance due to vasodilation, not increased systemic vascular resistance. Increased systemic vascular resistance is more commonly associated with conditions such as hypertension or obstructive shock.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Answer: A. Ensuring that the client and their family are kept informed about the client's care
Rationale:
A. Ensuring that the client and their family are kept informed about the client's care:
This action is the priority because communication is vital in managing a client with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Keeping the client and their family informed can help them understand the seriousness of the condition, the plan of care, and potential outcomes. It also fosters trust and ensures that the family can make informed decisions regarding the client's care.
B. Being aware of the client's wishes regarding care:
While being aware of the client’s wishes is important, especially in critical conditions like MODS, the priority lies in ensuring ongoing communication about the client's current status and treatment. Understanding the client's wishes can guide care but should follow the immediate need for clear communication about the evolving situation.
C. Scheduling periods of rest for the client:
Rest is essential for recovery, particularly in clients with MODS, but scheduling rest periods is a part of implementing care rather than a primary action. It can be planned based on the client’s needs and condition but does not take precedence over ensuring that the family is informed.
D. Discussing the client's resting times with the family:
While involving the family in discussions about the client's care is beneficial, the immediate priority is to ensure they are fully informed about the overall condition and care plan. This discussion can occur after establishing a solid communication foundation regarding the client's status and care approach.
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