A patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest.
While waiting for an electrocardiogram (ECG), which assessment should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A rationale

Keeping the head of the bed raised 45 degrees is a common practice in intensive care units to prevent aspiration pneumonia. However, in the context of septic shock, this intervention is not the highest priority.

Choice B rationale

Assessing the warmth of the extremities can provide information about peripheral perfusion. Cold extremities may indicate poor perfusion, a common symptom in septic shock. However, this is not the most critical intervention in the management of septic shock.

Choice C rationale

Maintaining strict intake and output records is crucial in the management of septic shock. Fluid balance is a key component of sepsis management. Monitoring fluid balance helps ensure that the patient is adequately hydrated, which is essential for maintaining blood pressure and organ perfusion.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring the patient’s blood glucose level is important, especially if the patient is receiving insulin or has a history of diabetes. However, in the context of septic shock, this is not the highest priority.

Choice A rationale

While the supervisor of the neurology unit may have expertise in neurology, they are not typically responsible for coordinating the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.

Choice B rationale

The nurse in charge of risk management is typically responsible for identifying and evaluating risks in the healthcare setting. They are not typically involved in the direct management of a patient’s care.

Choice C rationale

The nurse case manager is specifically trained to coordinate and manage the care of patients with complex conditions, including spinal cord injuries. They work with the patient, family, and healthcare team to develop a comprehensive care plan.

Choice D rationale

While an adult nurse practitioner can provide a high level of care, they are not typically responsible for managing the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.