The nurse is caring for a client who develops signs and symptoms of septic shock following a urinary tract infection one week ago. The healthcare provider prescribes a sepsis protocol to be initiated. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the plan of care?
Monitor blood glucose level.
Maintain strict intake and output.
Assess warmth of extremities.
Keep head of bed raised 45 degrees.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale
A. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important, especially in critically ill patients, as hyperglycemia can worsen outcomes in septic shock. However, it is not the most critical intervention in the immediate management of septic shock.
B. Monitoring intake and output (I/O) is essential for assessing fluid balance, which is crucial in managing septic shock. Maintaining a strict I/O helps in determining fluid resuscitation needs and evaluating response to treatment. This intervention is important but may not be the most critical initially.
C. Assessing warmth of extremities is important as it helps in evaluating peripheral perfusion, which can be compromised in septic shock. Cold extremities can indicate poor tissue perfusion and may prompt the need for interventions such as fluid resuscitation.
D. Keeping the head of the bed elevated to 45 degrees is a specific intervention aimed at improving oxygenation and respiratory function, particularly in patients who may be mechanically ventilated or at risk of respiratory compromise. While this is an important intervention, it is not directly related to managing septic shock itself.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","G"]
Explanation
A. Allowing the client to find a comfortable position can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial during an asthma exacerbation.
B. While the patient is currently receiving treatment with albuterol and oxygen, discussing aggressive respiratory treatment options may not be necessary at this moment unless the patient's condition deteriorates and requires escalation of care.
C. Deep tracheal suctioning is not indicated based on the current assessment findings unless there is a specific clinical indication such as excessive secretions or respiratory distress.
D. Identifying and discussing potential triggers is important for asthma management. This helps the client understand what factors might exacerbate their asthma and how to avoid them in the future.
E. Since the patient's oxygen saturation is still below target (91% on room air), weaning the supplemental oxygen is not appropriate at this time. The oxygen therapy should be continued as per the titration orders to maintain saturation above 94%.
F. Obtaining a sputum culture is not typically indicated in acute asthma exacerbations unless there is suspicion of a secondary infection or if the patient develops persistent fever and productive cough.
G. Continuously monitoring oxygen saturation is crucial to ensure it remains above 94%. This helps gauge the effectiveness of treatment and ensures the patient's respiratory status is stable.
H. Positive pressure ventilation is a more advanced intervention and is not indicated based on the current assessment findings. It would only be considered if the patient's condition worsens despite maximal medical therapy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale
A. While ensuring the room is secure and providing one-on-one observation are also important, the immediate concern after administering haloperidol is the potential for these side effects.
B. Continuous observation is crucial to monitor the client's behavior, mood, and safety while in seclusion. This allows the nurse to intervene promptly. However, monitoring should be specific
C. Seclusion is not intended as a punishment but as a therapeutic intervention to protect the client and others from harm during acute psychiatric episodes. The decision to release the client should be based on clinical assessment
D. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that can cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), including dystonia (muscle spasms). Monitoring for EPS is essential after administering haloperidol to ensure early detection and treatment, which may involve administering anticholinergic medications if EPS occurs.
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