A patient with hypotension has an order for 1000 mL of 0.9% Normal Saline over 3 hours.

The tubing drop factor is 10 gtt/mL. How many gtt/min should be given? (This is a med math nd does not require options)

Choice D rationale
When assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness, the nurse’s initial action should be to assess the patient’s response to pain. This is a fundamental part of the neurological examination and can provide valuable information about the patient’s level of consciousness and neurological function. Pain response can be assessed by applying a painful stimulus, such as a pinch, and observing the patient’s reaction.
Choice A rationale
Assessing the patient’s ability to follow complex commands is an important part of the neurological examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. This assessment requires a higher level of cognitive function and may not be possible in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the patient’s judgment is an important part of the mental status examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. Like the ability to follow complex commands, judgment requires a higher level of cognitive function and may not be assessable in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.

Choice C rationale
Assessing the patient’s verbal response is an important part of the neurological examination, but it is not typically the initial action when assessing a patient with an altered level of consciousness. The patient’s ability to speak and the content of their speech can provide important information about their neurological function, but this assessment may not be possible in a patient with significantly altered consciousness.

The correct answer is: = b. Prostaglandins

Choice A: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: These medications can be used for glaucoma, but they are not typically the first-line treatment due to potential side effects.

Choice B: Prostaglandins (Correct Answer) These are often the preferred initial medication for glaucoma because they are effective at lowering eye pressure, have minimal systemic side effects, and are typically used once daily.

Choice C: Alpha-agonists: These medications can be used as an adjunct to other glaucoma medications but are not usually the first choice due to potential side effects like dry mouth and fatigue.

Choice D: Beta-blockers: While once a common first-line treatment, beta-blockers have been largely replaced by prostaglandins due to potential side effects like slowed heart rate and worsened breathing problems.