A patient with sepsis has a BP of 70/46 mm Hg, pulse of 136 beats/min, respirations of 32 breaths/min, temperature of 104°F, and blood glucose of 245 mg/dL. Which intervention ordered by the health care provider should the nurse implement first?
Give 0.9% Sodium Chloride fluid bolus.
Give Pantoprazole (Protonix 40 mg IV push dally.
Give Acetaminophen (Tyler) 550 mg rectally.
Give rapid acting insulin per sliding scale.
The Correct Answer is A
The patient's vital signs indicate signs of septic shock, including low blood pressure (70/46 mm Hg), tachycardia (136 beats/min), and tachypnea (32 breaths/min). The patient also has a high temperature of 104°F, indicating a fever. These findings suggest a systemic response to an infection that is leading to inadequate tissue perfusion.The initial treatment for septic shock includes fluid resuscitation to improve blood pressure and tissue perfusion. A fluid bolus of 0.9% Sodium Chloride (normal saline) is commonly used to restore intravascular volume in septic shock. It helps to increase blood pressure, improve organ perfusion, and stabilize the patient's condition.
The other interventions, such as administering Pantoprazole (Protonix) for gastrointestinal protection, giving Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever control, or administering rapid-acting insulin per sliding scale for hyperglycemia, are important aspects of care but should be implemented after the initial fluid resuscitation. The priority at this moment is to address the patient's hypotension and inadequate tissue perfusion through the administration of fluid bolus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator medication used to rapidly reduce blood pressure in hypertensive emergencies. Its primary action is to dilate blood vessels, leading to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance and subsequent reduction in blood pressure.
Monitoring the client's blood pressure is crucial during the administration of nitroprusside to ensure that the medication is achieving the desired effect and that blood pressure is being appropriately controlled. The nurse will assess blood pressure frequently to adjust the infusion rate and titrate the medication to achieve the desired therapeutic effect while avoiding hypotension or other adverse effects.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Wound evisceration refers to the protrusion of internal organs or tissues through an open wound. In this case, with the separation of the wound and extrusion of the intestine through the opening, it is a clear indication of wound evisceration. It is a surgical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Wound dehiscence, on the other hand, refers to the separation or opening of a previously closed surgical incision or wound. It does not involve the extrusion of internal organs or tissues.

Wound infection refers to the presence of infectious microorganisms in the wound, leading to inflammation and other signs of infection.
Wound tunneling refers to the formation of narrow channels or tunnels within the wound, often caused by improper wound healing or infection.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
