A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing profuse vomiting.
Upon admission, the client's vital signs were within the expected reference range, but now the client's blood pressure is 86/58 mm Hg, his pulse is 114/min and weak, and his respiratory rate is 27/min.
The client appears restless and anxious and states that he thinks he is dying.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer a vasoconstrictor.
Increase the IV infusion rate.
Elevate the client's feet.
Initiate oxygen therapy.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Administering a vasoconstrictor is a potential intervention for shock but it is not the first action. The client's hypotension and tachycardia are indicative of hypovolemic shock due to profuse vomiting, leading to fluid loss. The body's initial compensatory mechanism involves vasoconstriction to maintain blood pressure, so further constriction without addressing the volume deficit can worsen tissue perfusion.
Choice B rationale
The client is exhibiting signs of hypovolemic shock, including a low blood pressure of 86/58 mmHg, a high pulse of 114/min, and a high respiratory rate of 27/min. These are physiological compensations for reduced circulating blood volume. Increasing the intravenous infusion rate directly addresses the primary problem by rapidly replacing lost fluid volume, thereby increasing preload, stroke volume, cardiac output, and ultimately, blood pressure.
Choice C rationale
Elevating the client's feet can temporarily increase venous return to the heart and improve blood pressure. However, this is a passive measure that does not address the underlying fluid deficit causing the hypovolemic shock. It is a helpful adjunctive action but is not the definitive first-line intervention required to correct the circulatory collapse in this scenario.
Choice D rationale
Initiating oxygen therapy is a supportive measure for shock because it helps improve tissue oxygenation, which is compromised due to poor perfusion. While beneficial, it does not correct the root cause of the shock, which is the lack of circulating fluid volume. The most immediate and life-saving intervention is to restore fluid volume to improve cardiac output and blood pressure
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Flumazenil is a competitive antagonist for benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system. It works by blocking the effects of benzodiazepines, effectively reversing their sedative and anxiolytic effects. It is a specific antidote for benzodiazepine overdose and is indicated for the reversal of conscious sedation or for managing a benzodiazepine overdose. It should be used with caution due to the risk of seizures in long-term users.
Choice B rationale
Atropine is an anticholinergic medication primarily used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate) and as an antidote for nerve agent or pesticide poisoning. It acts on muscarinic receptors to block the action of acetylcholine. It does not have any effect on benzodiazepine receptors and is therefore not the appropriate medication for treating benzodiazepine toxicity.
Choice C rationale
Activated charcoal is a general adsorbent used to treat certain oral poisonings and overdoses. It binds to the drug in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. It is only effective if administered early after ingestion of the drug. It is not a specific antidote for benzodiazepine toxicity, but a general measure to prevent absorption. Flumazenil is the specific antidote.
Choice D rationale
Naloxone is a narcotic antagonist that reverses the effects of opioid overdose by competing for the same receptor sites. It is specifically used for opioid toxicity and is ineffective for benzodiazepine overdose. Administering naloxone would not alter the effects of benzodiazepines and would be a completely inappropriate intervention for this type of toxicity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Carbonated beverages contain gas that expands the stomach, increasing pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This increased pressure can cause the LES to relax and allow gastric contents to reflux into the esophagus, exacerbating heartburn. Additionally, the acidic nature of many carbonated drinks can irritate the already inflamed esophageal lining.
Choice B rationale
Hot herbal tea can relax the esophageal muscles and soothe irritation. However, some herbal teas, like peppermint, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening reflux. In contrast, chamomile or ginger tea may have a calming effect on the stomach and reduce inflammation, which can alleviate the symptoms of heartburn.
Choice C rationale
High-fat snacks, especially those consumed at bedtime, delay gastric emptying. The presence of food in the stomach for a prolonged period increases the risk of gastric reflux. Delayed emptying leads to a larger volume of stomach contents exerting pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, making it more likely to open and allow acid to escape.
Choice D rationale
Lying down after meals increases the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and places the stomach contents in a position where gravity no longer helps keep them down. This postural change makes it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, which is a primary cause of heartburn. Remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after eating is recommended. *.
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