What is the earliest sign of shock that the nurse would monitor for during a routine assessment?
Restlessness
Pale skin
Complaints of thirst
Complaints of nausea
The Correct Answer is A
A) Restlessness.
Restlessness is often one of the earliest signs of shock. It reflects the body's attempt to compensate for decreased tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery by increasing sympathetic nervous system activity. Restlessness may manifest as agitation, fidgeting, or an inability to sit still. It is an important clinical indicator that suggests impending hemodynamic instability and warrants prompt assessment and intervention.
B) Pale skin:
Pale skin is a common sign of shock, but it may not always be the earliest manifestation. Pale skin typically occurs later in the progression of shock as vasoconstriction occurs, redirecting blood flow away from the skin to vital organs in an attempt to maintain perfusion.
C) Complaints of thirst:
While complaints of thirst may indicate dehydration or fluid loss, they are not typically considered the earliest sign of shock. Thirst usually occurs after the body has already begun to experience fluid deficit and may not be apparent until shock is more advanced.
D) Complaints of nausea:
Nausea may occur in shock due to decreased perfusion to the gastrointestinal tract, but it is not usually the earliest sign. Nausea may develop as shock progresses and metabolic disturbances worsen, but it is often preceded by other symptoms such as restlessness or altered mental status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
A. Diabetes: Diabetes is not typically a contraindication for decongestant use. However, patients with diabetes should be cautious with decongestants that contain sugar or other ingredients that may affect blood glucose levels.
B. Hypertension: Decongestants can cause vasoconstriction, which may lead to an increase in blood pressure. Patients with hypertension should use decongestants cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid exacerbating their condition.
C. Hyperthyroidism: While decongestants can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and may exacerbate symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as tachycardia and palpitations, hyperthyroidism is not typically considered a contraindication for decongestant use. However, patients with hyperthyroidism should use decongestants cautiously and consult with their healthcare provider.
D. Heart disease: Decongestants can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially exacerbating symptoms in patients with underlying heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or arrhythmias. Patients with heart disease should use decongestants cautiously and consult with their healthcare provider before use.
E. Allergic rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis is not typically a contraindication for decongestant use. In fact, decongestants are often used to relieve nasal congestion associated with allergic rhinitis. However, patients with allergic rhinitis should use decongestants cautiously and follow the recommended dosage instructions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Stool softener:
Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, work by adding moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They do not directly stimulate bowel movements or peristalsis through irritation of the bowel lining.
B) Saline/osmotic laxative:
Saline or osmotic laxatives, such as magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), work by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and increases bowel motility. They do not primarily act by irritating the bowel lining.
C) Stimulant laxative.
Stimulant laxatives work by directly stimulating the nerves in the intestines, which increases the rhythmic contractions of the intestines (peristalsis) and promotes bowel movements. These medications irritate the bowel lining, leading to increased motility and expulsion of stool. Examples of stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl and senna.
D) Bulk-forming laxative:
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium and methylcellulose, work by increasing the bulk and water content of the stool, which stimulates bowel movements. They do not directly irritate the bowel lining to promote peristalsis. Instead, they absorb water and swell in the intestines, creating a larger, softer stool that is easier to pass.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
