A client with septic shock develops disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Which pathophysiologic process should the nurse recognize as the cause of the coagulation problem?
Activation of complement pathways.
Inhibition of red blood production.
Production of extra platelets.
Depletion of clotting factors.
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale
A. The complement system is part of the immune response and can be activated in various conditions, including sepsis. However, activation of complement pathways does not directly cause DIC. Instead, in septic shock, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and tissue factor can trigger systemic coagulation activation, leading to DIC.
B. Inhibition of red blood cell production, such as in conditions like aplastic anemia or certain types of bone marrow disorders, does not directly cause DIC. DIC is primarily a disorder of excessive activation of clotting factors in response to underlying conditions like sepsis, trauma, or cancer.
C. Production of extra platelets, or thrombocytosis, is not the cause of DIC. Thrombocytosis can occur in response to various conditions, but DIC involves consumption of platelets due to widespread activation of clotting within the vasculature.
D. DIC is characterized by the widespread consumption and depletion of clotting factors and platelets as they are used up in the formation of microthrombi throughout the bloodstream. This depletion leads to an increased risk of bleeding due to insufficient clotting factors remaining to maintain hemostasis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Rationale
The client is experiencing significant psychological distress characterized by intrusive thoughts and memories related to the traumatic event (house collapsing during a hurricane). These thoughts are causing her difficulty in falling asleep and impacting her emotional well-being. Her statement about feeling unable to get out of a "funk" suggests that she may be experiencing symptoms of acute stress or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It's crucial to address her psychological distress promptly to provide support and prevent exacerbation of her symptoms.
Sleep Difficulties: The client requests sleeping medication due to her difficulty in falling asleep. Sleep disturbances are common after experiencing a traumatic event and can further contribute to emotional distress and hinder recovery. It's important to assess her sleep patterns and consider appropriate interventions, such as pharmacological sleep aids under medical supervision, to help her achieve adequate restorative sleep.
Environment: The client expresses a preference for a quieter area of the unit away from constant noise (talking and alarms). Hospital environments can be noisy and disruptive, which can exacerbate anxiety and sleep difficulties. Ensuring she is in a quieter environment or making adjustments to minimize noise near her can improve her comfort and facilitate better sleep, which is essential for recovery and emotional well-being.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale
A. Using water with 5% dextrose (DW) is appropriate for irrigating certain types of catheters, especially those that require a non-saline solution to maintain patency. However, the choice of irrigation solution should be based on the specific type of catheter and the facility's policies. It does not directly address the immediate issue of the luer-lock syringe.
B. Sending someone else to gather equipment may be necessary in some situations but does not address the current issue of the nurse preparing to irrigate with a luer-lock tipped syringe. This option delays addressing the immediate concern.
C. Applying povidone (such as povidone-iodine solution) to the site is a step in the preparation for aseptic technique but does not address the specific issue of the syringe type or the irrigation process itself.
D. Luer-lock syringes are commonly used for irrigation purposes because they securely attach to irrigation ports, preventing accidental disconnection during the procedure. Directing the nurse to attach the luer-lock syringe ensures that the irrigation can be performed safely and effectively.
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