A nurse is caring for a patient who is at risk for shock. Which of the following findings is the earliest indicator that this complication is developing?
Hypotension
Narrowing pulse pressure
Decreased level of consciousness
Anuria
The Correct Answer is B
Narrowing pulse pressure is an early indicator that shock is developing 1. Pulse pressure is the difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure. As shock progresses, the pulse pressure narrows due to a decrease in systolic blood pressure and an increase in diastolic blood pressure.
Choice A is not an answer because hypotension is a later sign of shock 2.
Choice C is not an answer because a decreased level of consciousness is also a later sign of shock.
Choice D is not an answer because anuria, or the absence of urine production, is also a later sign of shock
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should acknowledge and validate the client's feelings by saying, "It's okay to feel afraid. Let's talk about what you are afraid of." This response demonstrates empathy and encourages the client to express their concerns and feelings.
Choice B, "Your doctor is a great surgeon. You will be fine," dismisses the client's feelings and may increase their anxiety.
Choice C, "Don't worry. The important thing is you have now quit smoking," minimizes the seriousness of the procedure and the client's potential risks.
Choice D, "I understand your fears. I was a smoker also," shifts the focus from the client to the nurse and is not an effective way to provide emotional support for the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Sertraline is a medication used to treat depression and other mental health conditions that can cause unwanted side effects. Excessive sweating and muscle twitching are potential side effects that should be immediately reported to the healthcare provider. A dry cough is a common side effect of other medications and not specific to sertraline.
Decreasing sodium intake is not necessarily related to the medication, and harmless, temporary changes in the ability to taste and smell are not significant enough to warrant special mention.
Choice B, "This medication can cause a dry cough," is a potential side effect of other medications and may cause confusion as to what medication the client is taking.
Choice C, "I need to decrease my sodium intake while on this medication," is not likely a statement related to sertraline but to other medications or medical conditions.
Choice D, "This medication can cause harmless, temporary changes to my ability to taste and smell," while accurate, is not the most critical information for the client to know about and may cause confusion as to what the client should report to the provider.
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