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. Neurogenic shock is characterized by the loss of sympathetic tone, leading to parasympathetic predominance. Therefore, signs of sympathetic stimulation, such as tachycardia or sweating, are not present.
B. Neurogenic shock typically causes hypotension, not hypertension, due to vasodilation and decreased systemic vascular resistance.
C. Cool, moist skin is more commonly seen in hypovolemic or septic shock due to peripheral vasoconstriction. In neurogenic shock, vasodilation leads to warm, dry skin.
D. Bradycardia is a hallmark of neurogenic shock due to unopposed parasympathetic stimulation resulting from the loss of sympathetic nervous system control.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The first priority in this situation is to open the client's airway using the jaw-thrust maneuver. This technique is preferred for clients with suspected spinal injuries to avoid further spinal cord damage. Ensuring the airway is open and providing oxygenation are immediate life-saving actions.
B. Checking cranial nerve function, including assessing pupils, is important for evaluating neurological status but is not the first action when the client is not breathing. Ensuring the airway is open and providing oxygenation is the priority.
C. While placing the client in a rigid cervical collar is important for stabilizing the spine and preventing further injury, it should be done after ensuring the airway is clear. The immediate concern is to address the client's non-breathing status.
D. Evaluating the client for brain injury is important for overall assessment but is secondary to addressing the immediate life threat of not breathing. Ensuring the airway is open and then stabilizing the spine is the priority.
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