Which stage of shock is characterized by decreased blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion?

Irreversible stage

Refractory stage

Progressive stage

Compensatory stage

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A Reason:
The irreversible stage of shock, also known as the terminal stage, is characterized by severe organ damage and failure. At this point, the body's compensatory mechanisms have failed, and recovery is unlikely. Decreased blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion are present, but they are more pronounced in the progressive stage.

Choice B Reason:
The refractory stage is often used interchangeably with the irreversible stage. It signifies a point where shock has progressed to such an extent that treatment is no longer effective. The body's organs have sustained irreversible damage, and despite medical intervention, the patient is unlikely to survive.

Choice C Reason:
The progressive stage of shock is characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion. During this stage, the body's compensatory mechanisms begin to fail, leading to worsening hypoperfusion and cellular damage. This stage is critical as it marks the transition from reversible to potentially irreversible damage if not promptly treated.

Choice D Reason:
The compensatory stage, also known as the non-progressive stage, involves the body's initial response to shock. During this stage, mechanisms such as increased heart rate and vasoconstriction work to maintain blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. Blood pressure may still be within normal limits, and tissue perfusion is maintained, albeit at a reduced level.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Establishing IV access and starting fluid replacement is important for maintaining hemodynamic stability, especially if there is significant blood loss. However, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. Ensuring the neck is stabilized takes precedence to prevent potential spinal cord injury.

Choice B Reason:
Inserting a nasogastric tube is not a priority in the acute management of a trauma patient with a head injury. This procedure can be deferred until the patient's airway and cervical spine are secured and other life-threatening conditions are addressed.

Choice C Reason:
Keeping the neck stabilized is the priority action. In a trauma patient with a head injury, there is a high risk of cervical spine injury. Stabilizing the neck prevents further damage to the spinal cord, which could result in paralysis or other severe complications.

Choice D Reason:
Monitoring pulse and blood pressure frequently is essential for assessing the patient's hemodynamic status. However, it is not the immediate priority over stabilizing the cervical spine. Once the neck is stabilized, continuous monitoring of vital signs should follow.

A. Suction the nose. B. Notify the physician. C. Test the drainage for glucose. D. Ask the client to blow their nose.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Suctioning the nose is not the first action to take. Suctioning can increase intracranial pressure and potentially cause further injury. It is important to first determine the nature of the drainage before taking any invasive actions.

Choice B Reason:
Notifying the physician is important, but it should be done after confirming the nature of the drainage. Testing the fluid for glucose can help determine if it is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which would indicate a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention.

Choice C Reason:
Testing the drainage for glucose is the correct first action. CSF contains glucose, so a positive test would confirm that the clear fluid is CSF. This is a critical step in diagnosing a CSF leak, which can occur with basal skull fractures and requires prompt intervention to prevent infection and other complications.

Choice D Reason:
Asking the client to blow their nose is contraindicated. Blowing the nose can increase intracranial pressure and exacerbate a CSF leak. It is important to avoid any actions that could worsen the condition until the nature of the drainage is confirmed.

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Which stage of shock is characterized by decreased blood pressure and inadequate tissue perfusion?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client who was admitted to the emergency department following a head-on motor vehicle crash. The client is unresponsive, has respirations of 22/min, and a bleeding laceration to the forehead. Which of the following is the priority nursing action at this time?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who sustained a basal skull fracture and notes a thin stream of clear drainage coming from the client's right nostril. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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