The critical care nurse is preparing to initiate an infusion of a vasopressor medication to a client in septic shock. What goal of this treatment should the nurse identify?
Absence of pulmonary and peripheral edema
Reduced stroke volume and cardiac output
Reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure
Maintenance of adequate mean arterial pressure
The Correct Answer is D
A. Absence of pulmonary and peripheral edema is not a primary goal of vasopressor therapy. The focus is on improving blood pressure and perfusion.
B. Vasopressor therapy aims to increase blood pressure, not reduce stroke volume or cardiac output.
C. Vasopressors are used to increase blood pressure, so reducing blood pressure is not an intended goal.
D. The primary goal of vasopressor therapy in septic shock is to maintain an adequate mean arterial pressure (MAP) to ensure adequate organ perfusion and prevent organ failure.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Malignant hypertension poses risks for other conditions but is not the primary risk factor for cardiogenic shock.
B. A stroke does not directly lead to cardiogenic shock, though it may have other significant complications.
C. Acute kidney injury affects renal function but is not the primary risk for cardiogenic shock.
D. A myocardial infarction (MI) can impair the heart's pumping ability, leading to cardiogenic shock. This is due to the damage to heart muscle that can severely impact cardiac output and blood pressure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Epinephrine IM injection is not appropriate in this scenario, as it is typically reserved for treating anaphylactic shock. It is not used for septic shock where hypotension persists after fluid resuscitation.
B. Norepinephrine IV infusion is the correct choice. It is the first-line vasopressor in septic shock management when a fluid bolus does not adequately raise blood pressure. Norepinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, thereby increasing vascular resistance and blood pressure.
C. Dobutamine IV infusion might be considered if there is evidence of myocardial dysfunction or if additional inotropic support is necessary. However, it is not the immediate next step following fluid resuscitation when addressing persistent hypotension in septic shock.
D. Dexamethasone IV injection is not indicated for treating septic shock directly. It may be used in other contexts, such as treating adrenal insufficiency or reducing inflammation, but it does not play a role in immediate blood pressure management in septic shock.
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