A patient with septic shock 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 246 mg/dL. Which intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse implement first?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650 mg rectally.

Start insulin drip to maintain blood glucose at 110 to 150 mg/dl.

Administer normal saline IV at 500 mL/hr.

Start norepinephrine to keep blood pressure above 90 mm Hg.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

C. The first intervention should be to administer normal saline IV at 500 mL/hr to address the immediate concern of hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion.

A. While fever control is important, especially in septic shock, administering acetaminophen should not be the first intervention in a patient with severe hypotension and shock. Addressing the low blood pressure and perfusion is a higher priority.

B. Hyperglycemia is common in critically ill patients, including those with septic shock. However, in this scenario, the patient's severely low blood pressure and signs of shock take precedence over managing hyperglycemia. Insulin therapy can be initiated later once the patient's hemodynamic status is stabilized.

D. Norepinephrine is a vasopressor medication commonly used in septic shock to increase blood pressure and improve perfusion to vital organs. It helps counteract the vasodilation and hypotension characteristic of septic shock.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A The first intervention should be to ensure adequate oxygenation, as hypoxia can exacerbate shock. Therefore, providing oxygen at 100% via a non-rebreather mask is the most critical initial step. This intervention helps to maximize the amount of oxygen delivered to the patient's lungs and subsequently to the rest of the body, supporting vital organ function while further assessments and interventions are prepared.

B Continuous ECG monitoring allows for the assessment of the patient's heart rhythm, rate, and any signs of dysrhythmias or cardiac ischemia. This intervention is important for detecting any life- threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, which may require immediate intervention. While ECG monitoring is important, it may not be the highest priority intervention.

C Drawing blood for type and crossmatch is important for preparing for potential blood transfusions if significant blood loss is suspected. However, this intervention may take some time to process, and immediate stabilization of the patient's condition is paramount.

D Large-bore IV catheters allow for rapid infusion of fluids to restore intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion. This intervention is critical for stabilizing the patient's hemodynamic status and takes precedence in the management of shock. However, oxygenation should take priority.

A. Check the tubing connections for leaks. B. Continue to monitor the client's respiratory status. C. Check the suction control outlet on the wall. D. Clamp the chest tube.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

B. In a closed chest drainage system, slow and steady bubbling in the suction control chamber is typically an expected finding, as it indicates that the suction is active and functioning properly

A. Checking the tubing connections for leaks or the suction control outlet on the wall might be necessary if there were signs of a problem with the system's function.

C. Checking the suction control outlet on the wall is a reasonable action to ensure that the suction source is functioning appropriately and delivering the prescribed suction pressure to the chest drainage system. If there are any issues with the suction control outlet, they should be addressed to maintain proper suction.

D. Clamping the chest tube is not indicated based solely on the presence of slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber. Clamping the chest tube could obstruct drainage and lead to complications such as tension pneumothorax or retained hemothorax.

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A patient with septic shock 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 246 mg/dL. Which intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse implement first?

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