In a patient with septic shock, which complication will the nurse remain alert for?

Choice A reason: A heart rate of 56/min and a blood pressure of 110/70, while slightly lower than normal, may not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other symptoms. Bradycardia (a slow heart rate) and this blood pressure reading can be within acceptable limits for some individuals, especially if they are asymptomatic.

Choice B reason: Mitral valve regurgitation with a thready peripheral pulse indicates a decrease in cardiac output, which can be concerning. However, it may not require immediate intervention unless the client shows signs of severe decompensation or other critical symptoms. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential, but immediate action might not be necessary.

Choice C reason: Chest pain with inspiration in a client with pericarditis can be a symptom of the condition itself, which involves inflammation of the pericardium. While pain management and monitoring are important, this symptom alone may not necessitate immediate intervention unless it is severe or accompanied by other alarming signs.

Choice D reason: The development of slurred speech in a client with a history of atrial fibrillation is a critical symptom that warrants immediate intervention. Slurred speech can be a sign of a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), both of which require urgent medical attention. Immediate action is needed to evaluate and manage the client's condition to prevent further complications.

Choice A reason: The rehabilitative phase of burn care focuses on restoring function, improving cosmetic appearance, and achieving the best possible quality of life for the patient. This phase typically begins after the wound has healed and continues for months to years. The care priorities mentioned, such as wound care and nutritional support, indicate that the patient is still in a more active phase of treatment rather than the long-term rehabilitative phase.

Choice B reason: The acute phase of burn care starts after the initial resuscitation and continues until the wound is closed. During this phase, the primary focus is on wound care, nutritional support, and prevention of complications like infection. The goal is to promote healing, prevent infection, and address the patient's nutritional needs to support recovery. This phase aligns with the care priorities mentioned in the question.

Choice C reason: The emergent phase, also known as the resuscitative phase, begins at the time of injury and continues for the first 24-48 hours. The primary focus during this phase is on stabilizing the patient's condition, managing airway and breathing, fluid resuscitation, and addressing immediate life-threatening issues. The care priorities in the question indicate that the patient has moved beyond the initial resuscitative efforts.

Choice D reason: The immediate resuscitative phase overlaps with the emergent phase and focuses on providing immediate life-saving measures to stabilize the patient. This includes fluid resuscitation, airway management, and treating shock. The care priorities mentioned in the question suggest that the patient is beyond the initial resuscitative efforts and is in a more ongoing phase of treatment.