A patient who is in hypovolemic shock has the following clinical signs: BP 80/55 mmHg, heart rate 120 beats/min, and urine output of 20 mL/hr. After administering an IV fluid bolus, which of these signs is the best indication of improved perfusion?
Urine output increases to 35 mL/hr.
Heart rate decreases to 105 beats/min.
Systolic blood pressure increases to 85 mmHg.
Right atrial pressure decreases.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: An increase in urine output to 35 mL/hr is the best indication of improved perfusion. Urine output is a direct measure of kidney function and perfusion. When the kidneys receive adequate blood flow, they are able to produce urine. An increase in urine output indicates that the patient's kidneys are being perfused more effectively, which is a reliable sign of overall improved perfusion status.
Choice B reason: A decrease in heart rate to 105 beats/min is a positive sign, as it indicates a reduction in the stress response and an improvement in hemodynamic status. However, it is not as direct an indicator of improved perfusion as urine output. Heart rate can be influenced by many factors, and while a lower heart rate is generally a good sign, it does not specifically indicate improved organ perfusion.
Choice C reason: An increase in systolic blood pressure to 85 mmHg is an indication of improved hemodynamic stability, but it is not as sensitive a measure of perfusion as urine output. Blood pressure provides information about the pressure within the arteries but does not directly indicate how well the organs and tissues are being perfused.
Choice D reason: A decrease in right atrial pressure is not typically an indicator of improved perfusion. Right atrial pressure reflects the pressure in the right atrium of the heart, which can be influenced by various factors, including fluid status and cardiac function. It is not a direct measure of perfusion to vital organs and tissues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C,D,A,B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assessing the client's respiratory status is the top priority action. This ensures that any immediate issues with breathing or oxygenation are identified and managed promptly. Respiratory status can quickly deteriorate in patients with heart failure, and addressing this first can be life-saving.
Choice B reason: Drawing blood to assess the patient's serum electrolytes is important to determine any imbalances that need immediate correction. Electrolyte levels can affect heart function and overall stability, so understanding the patient's current status helps guide further treatment.
Choice C reason: Administering the prescribed intravenous furosemide (Lasix) is critical for managing fluid overload in heart failure. Furosemide helps reduce fluid retention and alleviate symptoms such as pulmonary edema, which can improve respiratory status and overall comfort.
Choice D reason: Asking the patient about an advanced directive is important for understanding their wishes and planning care accordingly. However, it is not an immediate priority compared to stabilizing the patient's respiratory status and addressing urgent medical needs.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Auscultating for irregular heart tones can provide useful information about the heart’s rhythm and potential arrhythmias. However, it is not the most specific or definitive assessment for diagnosing a myocardial infarction (MI).
Choice B reason: Assessing for ST elevations on continuous telemetry and 12-lead EKG is critical in diagnosing a myocardial infarction. ST-segment elevation is a key indicator of an acute MI, specifically indicating myocardial injury. Continuous telemetry and 12-lead EKG provide real-time and detailed views of the heart's electrical activity, helping to identify ischemic changes.
Choice C reason: Assessing for elevated Troponin levels is essential because Troponins are cardiac biomarkers that increase significantly when there is damage to the heart muscle, such as during an MI. Elevated Troponin levels are highly specific and sensitive indicators of myocardial infarction, making this assessment crucial.
Choice D reason: Assessing for low magnesium levels is not directly related to diagnosing a myocardial infarction. While magnesium levels are important for overall cardiac function, they do not specifically indicate an acute MI.
Choice E reason: Assessing the client's blood pressure is an important part of a comprehensive assessment and can provide information about the patient's hemodynamic status. However, it is not specific to diagnosing a myocardial infarction.
Choice F reason: Assessing if the pain radiates to the left arm is an important symptom of a myocardial infarction. However, while it supports the suspicion of an MI, it is not as definitive as ST elevation on an EKG or elevated Troponin levels.
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