The nurse is preparing to administer 1 liter (1000 mL) of 0.9% NS over 2 hours intravenously to a patient experiencing shock. At what rate will the nurse set the infusion pump? Enter the number only.

Choice A reason: Epinephrine is primarily used in emergency situations for its vasoconstrictive and bronchodilatory effects, particularly in cases of anaphylaxis or cardiac arrest. It is not typically used to manage symptoms associated with brainstem contusions or to regulate urinary output.

Choice B reason: Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly prescribed to reduce fluid retention in conditions such as heart failure or renal disease. Given that the client has already produced a large volume of urine (4,000 mL in 24 hours, which is above the normal range of 800 to 2,000 milliliters per day), administering furosemide would not be appropriate as it would likely exacerbate the excessive urinary output.

Choice C reason: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to treat acute hypertensive crises. It has no role in the management of thirst or regulation of urinary output and is not indicated for the treatment of brainstem contusions.

Choice D reason: Desmopressin is a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. It is used to treat conditions characterized by excessive urination, such as diabetes insipidus, and to manage polyuria and polydipsia (excessive thirst) following head trauma or surgery in the pituitary region. In the context of a brainstem contusion with a reported high urinary output, desmopressin would be the appropriate medication to prescribe to reduce urine volume and address the client's thirst.

Choice A reason: The statement "You should limit discussing past events with the client" does not necessarily incorporate the client's and family's cultural beliefs. Discussing past events can be a part of reminiscence therapy, which can be beneficial for clients with terminal illnesses. It allows them to reflect on their life experiences and can provide a sense of fulfillment or closure.

Choice B reason: Saying "We will respect what is important to you" is a broad and inclusive statement that acknowledges the importance of the client's and family's cultural beliefs. It implies that the care team is willing to listen and adapt the care plan to align with the client's values, which is a fundamental aspect of culturally competent care. This approach can help ensure that the client's end-of-life care is respectful and responsive to their individual needs.

Choice C reason: Offering to "arrange all burial services" may not be appropriate as it assumes that the family requires assistance with this aspect of care without first understanding their specific cultural or religious practices. It is important to have a conversation with the client and family about their preferences and needs regarding end-of-life rituals before making any arrangements.

Choice D reason: The statement "Grieving should not be done in front of the client" may not align with the cultural beliefs of the client and family. Grieving practices vary widely among different cultures, and some may find it important to express grief openly in the presence of the dying person. It is essential to respect and accommodate the family's grieving process.