A nurse is caring for a client in septic shock. The client is still hypotensive and lethargic following a 2,500 mL fluid bolus of lactated Ringer (LR) solution. Which of the following interventions does the nurse anticipate next?
Epinephrine intramuscular (IM) injection
Norepinephrine intravenous (IV) infusion
Dobutamine intravenous (IV) infusion
Dexamethasone intravenous (IV) injection
The Correct Answer is B
A. Epinephrine IM injection is not appropriate in this scenario, as it is typically reserved for treating anaphylactic shock. It is not used for septic shock where hypotension persists after fluid resuscitation.
B. Norepinephrine IV infusion is the correct choice. It is the first-line vasopressor in septic shock management when a fluid bolus does not adequately raise blood pressure. Norepinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, thereby increasing vascular resistance and blood pressure.
C. Dobutamine IV infusion might be considered if there is evidence of myocardial dysfunction or if additional inotropic support is necessary. However, it is not the immediate next step following fluid resuscitation when addressing persistent hypotension in septic shock.
D. Dexamethasone IV injection is not indicated for treating septic shock directly. It may be used in other contexts, such as treating adrenal insufficiency or reducing inflammation, but it does not play a role in immediate blood pressure management in septic shock.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The treatment for vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) in a previous admission is not directly related to the development of CLABSI in the current situation. The infection is more likely caused by improper handling or maintenance of the central line.
B. Drawing blood cultures from the central line, while not ideal, is not the most likely cause of CLABSI. Proper technique can mitigate the risk of introducing infection during this procedure.
C. Changing the central line dressing using clean technique instead of sterile technique increases the risk of introducing pathogens to the central line site, leading to a central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).
D. Receiving antibiotics and intravenous fluids through the same line does not typically cause CLABSI if the line is properly maintained and sterile techniques are observed during administration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bradykinesia, hand tremors, and memory loss are more characteristic of Parkinson's disease, not multiple sclerosis.
B. Ascending paralysis beginning in the lower extremities and dysphagia are typical of Guillain-Barré syndrome, not multiple sclerosis. MS does not usually present with paralysis but rather with muscle weakness and sensory disturbances.
C. Early signs of multiple sclerosis often include areas of numbness, weakness in the legs, and visual problems such as optic neuritis. These symptoms result from demyelination and nerve damage in the central nervous system.
D. Choreiform movements and loss of facial expression are associated with Huntington's disease, not multiple sclerosis.
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