A nurse is assessing a client who presents with a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F), a heart rate of 110 beats per minute, and a blood pressure of 90/60 mmHg.Which condition is the client most likely experiencing?
Septic shock.
Hypovolemic shock.
Cardiogenic shock.
Neurogenic shock.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Septic shock is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to infection, leading to vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and hypotension. The patient’s elevated temperature, tachycardia, and hypotension are consistent with septic shock. In septic shock, the body’s response to infection leads to widespread inflammation and impaired tissue perfusion.
Choice B rationale
Hypovolemic shock is caused by a significant loss of blood or fluids, leading to decreased circulating volume and hypotension. While the patient’s hypotension and tachycardia could be consistent with hypovolemic shock, the elevated temperature suggests an infectious process, making septic shock more likely.
Choice C rationale
Cardiogenic shock is caused by the heart’s inability to pump effectively, leading to decreased cardiac output and tissue perfusion. While hypotension and tachycardia are consistent with cardiogenic shock, the elevated temperature is not a typical finding. Cardiogenic shock is usually associated with conditions like myocardial infarction or severe heart failure.
Choice D rationale
Neurogenic shock is caused by a disruption in the autonomic pathways, leading to vasodilation and hypotension. It is typically associated with spinal cord injuries or severe head trauma. The patient’s elevated temperature and tachycardia are not consistent with neurogenic shock, making septic shock the more likely diagnosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypocortisolism, also known as Addison’s disease, is characterized by insufficient production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. It does not typically cause goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland due to various causes such as iodine deficiency, autoimmune diseases, or nodules.
Choice B rationale
Hyperinsulinemia refers to an excess level of insulin in the blood, often associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It is not related to the development of goiter.
Choice C rationale
Iodide deficiency is a common cause of goiter. The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce thyroid hormones. When there is a deficiency, the gland enlarges in an attempt to capture more iodine from the bloodstream.
Choice D rationale
Azotemia is an elevation of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels, typically due to kidney dysfunction. It is not associated with the development of goiter.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute is slightly elevated but not necessarily concerning for a client with COPD. COPD patients often have higher respiratory rates due to their chronic lung condition.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) indicates a fever, which could be a sign of infection. However, it is not the most concerning finding in a COPD patient.
Choice C rationale
A pulse oximetry reading of 88% is concerning because it indicates hypoxemia. COPD patients often have lower oxygen levels, but a reading below 90% is worrisome and may require supplemental oxygen or other interventions.
Choice D rationale
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg is elevated but not immediately concerning in the context of COPD. It is important to monitor, but it is not the most critical finding.
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