Following the administration of albuterol and the subsequent assessment, what actions should the nurse plan for the rest of the shift?

Choice A rationale

Production of extra platelets is not the primary pathophysiological process in Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). While the body may try to produce more platelets in response to the widespread clotting, this is not the cause of the coagulation problem.

Choice B rationale

Depletion of clotting factors is a key feature of DIC. In the initial phase of DIC, there is an overactive clotting process leading to the formation of small blood clots throughout the body’s blood vessels. This overactive clotting uses up platelets and clotting factors, leading to a state where the body is unable to control bleeding, which is the second phase of DIC34.

Choice C rationale

Inhibition of red blood cell production is not a primary feature of DIC. While DIC can lead to anemia due to blood loss from excessive bleeding, it does not directly inhibit the production of red blood cells.

Choice D rationale

Activation of complement pathways is part of the body’s immune response and is not the primary cause of the coagulation problem in DIC34.

Step 1: Observe breathing patterns. Respiratory depression is a critical symptom of myxedema coma that requires immediate attention.

Step 2: Measure body temperature. Hypothermia is a common symptom of myxedema coma and can provide important information about the severity of the patient’s condition.

Step 3: Assess blood pressure. Hypotension can occur in myxedema coma and can indicate the severity of the patient’s condition.

Step 4: Palpate for pedal edema. While this can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, it is not typically a primary concern in a patient showing signs of myxedema coma.