A nurse is caring for an adolescent who has been admitted to the PICU with a diagnosis of septic shock. The nurse notes the following :
When planning care for this client, the nurse should anticipate a provider's prescription for which of the following?
Broad-spectrum antibiotics and fluid boluses
Antipyretics and oxygen therapy
Vasopressors and blood transfusions
Corticosteroids and antihistamines
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are indicated for septic shock caused by bacterial infection, as they can target a wide range of pathogens and prevent further sepsis. Fluid boluses are also essential to restore the intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion and oxygenation.

Choice B reason: Antipyretics and oxygen therapy are not sufficient to treat septic shock, as they do not address the underlying infection or the hypovolemia. Antipyretics may lower the temperature, but they do not eliminate the bacteria. Oxygen therapy may improve the pulse oximeter reading, but it does not correct the hypoperfusion.
Choice C reason: Vasopressors and blood transfusions are not the first-line treatments for septic shock, as they may have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system and the coagulation cascade. Vasopressors may increase the blood pressure, but they may also cause vasoconstriction and reduce the blood flow to vital organs. Blood transfusions may increase the hemoglobin level, but they may also increase the risk of fluid overload, hemolysis, and transfusion reactions.
Choice D reason: Corticosteroids and antihistamines are not indicated for septic shock, as they do not have any proven benefits and may have harmful effects on the immune system and the inflammatory response. Corticosteroids may suppress the adrenal function and increase the risk of infection. Antihistamines may cause sedation and dryness of the mucous membranes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Emphasizing the quantity, rather than the quality, of food consumed may lead to overeating, obesity, or malnutrition. The nurse should encourage the mother to offer a variety of healthy foods in appropriate portions and avoid forcing or bribing the child to eat.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Expecting that food consumption might not decrease significantly may cause the mother to ignore the signs of poor nutrition or growth in the child. The nurse should advise the mother to monitor the child's weight, height, and development regularly and consult the provider if there are any concerns.
Choice C reason: This is a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Adding fruit juice to the child's diet can increase the vitamin intake, especially vitamin C, which is important for immune function and wound healing. The nurse should recommend the mother to choose 100% fruit juice and limit the amount to 4 to 6 oz per day.
Choice D reason: This is not a correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching. Having the child remain at the table after meals to increase food intake may create a negative association with eating and cause more resistance or frustration. The nurse should suggest the mother to make mealtime a pleasant and relaxed experience and respect the child's appetite and preferences.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the client in a private room is not necessary for a client who has a high WBC count, unless they have other indications for isolation, such as an infectious disease. A high WBC count may indicate inflammation, infection, or other conditions that affect the immune system.
Choice B reason: Monitoring the client's temperature every 4 hr is an appropriate action for a nurse to take for a client who has a high WBC count. A fever is a common sign of infection or inflammation, and it may require further intervention, such as antibiotics or antipyretics.
Choice C reason: Administering an antihistamine as prescribed is not related to a high WBC count. Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions, which may cause a low WBC count due to the release of histamine from mast cells.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake is not specific to a high WBC count. Fluid intake should be based on the client's hydration status, urine output, and other factors. Increasing fluid intake may help flush out toxins or bacteria, but it is not a priority action for a client who has a high WBC count.
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