A patient with sepsis has a BP of 70/46 mm Hg, pulse of 136 beats/min, respirations of 32 breaths/min, temperature of 104°F, and blood glucose of 245 mg/dL. Which intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse implement first?
Give 0.9% Sodium Chloride fluid bolus.
Give Pantoprazole (Protonix 40 mg IV push dally.
Give Acetaminophen (Tyler) 550 mg rectally.
Give rapid acting insulin per sliding scale.
The Correct Answer is A
The patient's vital signs indicate signs of septic shock, including low blood pressure (70/46 mm Hg), tachycardia (136 beats/min), and tachypnea (32 breaths/min). The patient also has a high temperature of 104°F, indicating a fever. These findings suggest a systemic response to an infection that is leading to inadequate tissue perfusion.The initial treatment for septic shock includes fluid resuscitation to improve blood pressure and tissue perfusion. A fluid bolus of 0.9% Sodium Chloride (normal saline) is commonly used to restore intravascular volume in septic shock. It helps to increase blood pressure, improve organ perfusion, and stabilize the patient's condition.
The other interventions, such as administering Pantoprazole (Protonix) for gastrointestinal protection, giving Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever control, or administering rapid-acting insulin per sliding scale for hyperglycemia, are important aspects of care but should be implemented after the initial fluid resuscitation. The priority at this moment is to address the patient's hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion through the administration of fluid bolus.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Morphine is a potent opioid analgesic that can depress the respiratory system. Respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect of morphine, and it is essential for the nurse to monitor the patient's respiratory rate regularly to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent respiratory complications.
By checking the respiratory rate, the nurse can assess if the patient is breathing adequately and detect any signs of respiratory depression. If the respiratory rate is significantly decreased or the patient shows signs of respiratory distress (e.g., shallow or irregular breathing), immediate intervention is necessary to address the situation promptly.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Nausea and vomiting can lead to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes, including potassium, from the body. Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. It is commonly characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Antibiotics are not typically used to treat viral gastroenteritis and would not directly cause the electrolyte imbalance. Administration of IV Furosemide, a diuretic, would increase urine output but is not typically used to treat gastroenteritis. The fever itself may contribute to fluid loss but would not directly cause the electrolyte imbalance.
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