A 35-year-old patient arrives at the Emergency Department in acute respiratory failure. What assessment information does the nurse prioritize as needing immediate action?

Choice A reason: A heart rate of 56/min and a blood pressure of 110/70, while slightly lower than normal, may not require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other symptoms. Bradycardia (a slow heart rate) and this blood pressure reading can be within acceptable limits for some individuals, especially if they are asymptomatic.

Choice B reason: Mitral valve regurgitation with a thready peripheral pulse indicates a decrease in cardiac output, which can be concerning. However, it may not require immediate intervention unless the client shows signs of severe decompensation or other critical symptoms. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential, but immediate action might not be necessary.

Choice C reason: Chest pain with inspiration in a client with pericarditis can be a symptom of the condition itself, which involves inflammation of the pericardium. While pain management and monitoring are important, this symptom alone may not necessitate immediate intervention unless it is severe or accompanied by other alarming signs.

Choice D reason: The development of slurred speech in a client with a history of atrial fibrillation is a critical symptom that warrants immediate intervention. Slurred speech can be a sign of a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), both of which require urgent medical attention. Immediate action is needed to evaluate and manage the client's condition to prevent further complications.

Choice A reason: Albumin is a plasma expander and is typically used to restore blood volume in cases of shock, burns, or trauma. However, it is not specifically indicated for managing spinal shock. Albumin helps in maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance but does not directly address the underlying pathophysiology of spinal shock.

Choice B reason: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to manage hypertensive crises. It works by rapidly reducing blood pressure through vasodilation. In the context of spinal shock, where hypotension is a concern, administering nitroprusside would be inappropriate as it could exacerbate the hypotensive state and worsen the patient's condition.

Choice C reason: Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is used to reduce inflammation and edema around the spinal cord following an injury. The anti-inflammatory properties of dexamethasone help to mitigate secondary damage caused by swelling and pressure on the spinal cord tissue. It is commonly administered in cases of acute spinal cord injuries to improve neurological outcomes and manage symptoms of spinal shock.

Choice D reason: Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid overload and edema. It works by increasing urine output, which can help reduce fluid retention in various conditions, such as heart failure and renal impairment. However, it is not specifically indicated for the management of spinal shock and does not address the underlying causes of spinal cord injury-related inflammation and edema.