The client who is experiencing septic shock is started on norepinephrine by intravenous drip via pump. Which frequent assessments should the nurse prioritize while administering this medication? (Select All that Apply)
Color of conjunctiva
Deep tendon reflexes
IV Insertion site
Blood pressure and heart rate
Hourly urine output
Correct Answer : C,D,E
A. Color of conjunctiva
While assessing for signs of perfusion is important, conjunctival color is not a primary assessment for norepinephrine administration. Perfusion is better assessed through blood pressure, heart rate, capillary refill, and urine output.
B. Deep tendon reflexes
Norepinephrine primarily affects vascular tone and cardiac output. Deep tendon reflexes are not a priority assessment for this medication.
C. IV Insertion site
Norepinephrine is a vasopressor, and extravasation can cause severe tissue necrosis. Frequent monitoring of the IV site is necessary to prevent complications.
D. Blood pressure and heart rate
Norepinephrine increases blood pressure and heart rate through vasoconstriction. Continuous monitoring is required to assess for excessive hypertension, tachycardia, or inadequate response to therapy.
E. Hourly urine output
Urine output is an essential indicator of organ perfusion. Since norepinephrine is used to maintain adequate blood pressure and perfusion in septic shock, monitoring urine output helps assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Fluid resuscitation
Burns covering a large TBSA result in massive fluid loss due to increased capillary permeability, leading to hypovolemic shock. Fluid resuscitation with lactated Ringer’s solution using the Parkland formula is the priority to restore intravascular volume and prevent organ failure.
B. Transfer to a burn center
While this patient requires specialized burn care, the immediate priority is fluid resuscitation. After initial stabilization, transfer to a burn center can be arranged.
C. Application of sterile dressings
Wound care is important, but it is not the priority in the emergent phase. Restoring circulation and preventing shock take precedence.
D. Administer morphine 8 mg IV
Pain management is crucial, but it is secondary to restoring intravascular volume and preventing hypovolemic shock.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. is expected to be decreased for three to five days.
In the initial stages following severe burn injury, there is often oliguria (low urine output), but this is typically followed by diuresis (increased urine output) after the first 24-48 hours, not a decrease over 3-5 days.
B. will be reduced in the first 24-48 hours and will then increase.
In the first 24-48 hours following a severe burn injury, the body may undergo a state of hypovolemia and oliguria. As fluid resuscitation begins, urine output typically increases.
C. output will be greatest in the first 24 hours after the burn injury.
Although urine output may increase with proper fluid resuscitation, it is not usually greatest in the first 24 hours; the increase typically happens after the initial resuscitation period.
D. will be elevated due to the amount of intravenous fluids administered during the initial phases of treatment.
While fluid resuscitation leads to an increase in urine output after the first 24-48 hours, it is not expected to be elevated right away. The kidneys may initially respond with oliguria.
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