An athlete has been practicing twice a day in the heat and reports being dizzy.
The patient’s vital signs are blood pressure of 100/2 mm Hg, pulse rate of 100 beats/min, and respiratory rate of 26 breaths/min; the patient does not remember the last voiding time.
The skin is cool to touch and pale in color. Which type of shock is the patient experiencing?

Hypovolemic shock

Neurogenic shock

Cardiogenic shock

Anaphylactic shock

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body loses a significant amount of blood or fluids, leading to a decrease in circulating blood volume. This can result in inadequate perfusion of organs and tissues, which can cause damage and even death if not treated promptly.

In this case, the athlete's symptoms and vital signs are consistent with hypovolemic shock. The athlete has been practicing twice a day in the heat, which can lead to significant fluid loss through sweating. The athlete is also dizzy, which is a common symptom of hypovolemia due to decreased blood flow to the brain. The athlete's blood pressure is low (100/2 mm Hg), pulse rate is elevated (100 beats/minute), and respiratory rate is increased (26 breaths/minute), all of which are compensatory mechanisms to try to maintain blood pressure and perfusion in the setting of hypovolemia. The athlete's skin is cool to touch

and pale in color, which is due to decreased blood flow to the skin. The athlete also does not remember the last voiding time, which may indicate decreased urine output, another sign of hypovolemia.

Key points supporting hypovolemic shock:

Significant fluid loss due to exercise in the heat Dizziness

Low blood pressure Elevated pulse rate Increased respiratory rate Cool, pale skin

Decreased urine output Additional details:

Hypovolemic shock can be caused by various factors, including:

Hemorrhage (blood loss) Severe dehydration Burns

Severe vomiting or diarrhea

Treatment for hypovolemic shock typically involves:

Intravenous fluid replacement to restore circulating blood volume Blood transfusion if the shock is due to hemorrhage

Oxygen therapy to support breathing

Medications to support blood pressure and heart function

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Avoiding crossing legs at the knees is a correct practice for people with PVD. It helps to prevent constriction of blood flow in the legs. When legs are crossed, pressure is applied to the veins in the lower leg, which can impede blood flow. This can lead to several problems, including:

Increased risk of blood clots Worsening of swelling in the legs Increased pain and discomfort Potential skin damage

Reinforcing this practice with the client is important.

Choice B rationale:

Not going barefoot is also a correct practice for people with PVD. It helps to protect the feet from injuries and infections. People with PVD may have reduced sensation in their feet, making them more susceptible to injuries they may not notice. Additionally, PVD can impair wound healing, so even minor injuries can become serious problems.

Reinforcing this practice with the client is important.

Choice C rationale:

Using a thermometer to check bath water temperature is not directly relevant to PVD management. While it's generally a good safety practice to avoid excessively hot water, which can burn the skin, it's not specifically related to the blood flow issues associated with PVD.

This statement indicates a need for further teaching to focus on PVD-specific self-care measures.

Choice D rationale:

Wearing stockings with elastic tops is generally recommended for people with PVD. These stockings, often referred to as compression stockings, help to improve blood flow in the legs by applying gentle pressure. This can help to reduce swelling, pain, and the risk of blood clots.

Reinforcing this practice with the client is important.

A. Administer theophylline (aminophylline) intravenously for bronchospasms. B. Culture the site of the bee sting and administer antibiotics. C. Provide sips of water to moisten the mouth and throat, which is dry from the tachypnea. D. Administer diphenhydramine (Benadryl), which is an H1 receptor antagonist. E. Prepare for surgical management of the airway.

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Intravenous theophylline (aminophylline) is a bronchodilator that can be life-saving in cases of anaphylactic shock with bronchospasm. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, allowing for increased airflow.

Anaphylactic shock can cause severe bronchospasm, which can lead to respiratory failure and death. Theophylline can help to reverse bronchospasm and improve oxygenation.

The dosage of theophylline should be individualized based on the patient's weight and severity of bronchospasm. It is important to monitor the patient's heart rate and blood pressure while administering theophylline, as it can cause tachycardia and arrhythmias.

Choice B rationale:

Culturing the site of the bee sting and administering antibiotics is not appropriate in the acute management of anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction, not an infection. Antibiotics will not address the underlying cause of the reaction.

Antibiotics may be necessary if the patient develops a secondary infection at the site of the bee sting. However, this is not a priority in the acute setting.

Choice C rationale:

Providing sips of water to moisten the mouth and throat is not a priority in the acute management of anaphylactic shock. The patient's primary concern is likely to be difficulty breathing.

If the patient is able to drink, it is important to ensure that they are able to do so safely without compromising their airway. However, this is not a life-saving intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine that can help to block the effects of histamine, one of the chemicals released during an allergic reaction. This can help to reduce symptoms such as swelling, itching, and hives.

Diphenhydramine can also help to prevent further release of histamine, which can help to stop the progression of the allergic reaction.

Diphenhydramine is available over-the-counter, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before administering it to a patient in anaphylactic shock.

Choice E rationale:

Surgical management of the airway may be necessary if the patient's airway becomes compromised due to swelling. This could include intubation or a tracheostomy.

It is important to be prepared for surgical airway management in case it is needed. Early preparation can help to prevent delays in treatment and improve the patient's chances of survival.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

What are the appropriate interventions for a patient experiencing anaphylactic shock from a bee sting? (Select all that apply)

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is observing the IV catheter insertion site of a client who is receiving continuous IV therapy.Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an indication that the client has developed phlebitis?

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