After administering an inotropic medication to a patient in shock, the nurse monitors the patient for signs of:

Decreased cardiac output.

Increased afterload.

Increased cardiac output.

Slowing of the heart rate.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Decreased cardiac output: Inotropic medications are intended to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output, so monitoring for signs of decreased cardiac output would be contrary to the expected therapeutic effect of these medications.

B. Increased afterload: Inotropic medications primarily affect the contractility of the heart muscle and do not typically have a direct effect on afterload (the force against which the heart must pump blood). While changes in afterload can occur as a secondary consequence of altered cardiac function, monitoring for signs of increased afterload would not be the primary focus after administering an inotropic medication.

C. Increased cardiac output.
Inotropic medications are drugs that affect the contractility of the heart muscle. They are often used in the management of shock to improve cardiac function and increase cardiac output. Therefore, after administering an inotropic medication, the nurse would monitor the patient for signs of increased cardiac output, such as improved peripheral perfusion, increased blood pressure, and resolution of signs and symptoms of shock.

D. Slowing of the heart rate: Inotropic medications can affect heart rate indirectly by altering cardiac output, but their primary effect is on contractility rather than heart rate. Monitoring for signs of bradycardia (slowing of the heart rate) may be appropriate in certain clinical situations, but it is not the primary consideration after administering an inotropic medication for shock.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Respirations rate:
Respiratory rate is an important vital sign to monitor in patients with shock, as respiratory distress can indicate inadequate oxygenation. However, blood pressure is generally considered more critical to assess initially in the context of shock because it directly reflects tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery.

B) Heart rate:
Heart rate is an important vital sign to monitor in patients with shock, as tachycardia (rapid heart rate) may indicate the body's compensatory response to maintain cardiac output and tissue perfusion. However, blood pressure is generally considered more critical to assess initially in the context of shock because it directly reflects tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery.

C) Blood pressure.
In shock, the body's vital organs are not receiving adequate blood flow and oxygen, leading to a life-threatening condition. While all vital signs are important to monitor in a patient experiencing shock, blood pressure is typically considered the most critical because it reflects the perfusion pressure—the force driving blood through the circulatory system to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues. A decrease in blood pressure can indicate inadequate tissue perfusion and impending organ failure. Therefore, timely assessment and monitoring of blood pressure are essential for identifying and managing shock effectively.

D) Temperature:
Temperature monitoring is important in assessing for signs of infection or other systemic issues that may contribute to shock, such as sepsis. However, blood pressure is generally considered more critical to assess initially in the context of shock because it directly reflects tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery.

A. Increase dosing with a large meal B. Take the medication at least 2 hours prior to meals C. Take the medication with meals D. Decrease fluid intake

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Increase dosing with a large meal:
Increasing the dosing with a large meal may not be appropriate as it could lead to overdosing and potential side effects. The dosage of pancrelipase should be determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual's needs and response to treatment.

B) Take the medication at least 2 hours prior to meals:
Taking the medication prior to meals may not be effective as the enzymes will not be available when food is consumed, which defeats the purpose of enzyme replacement therapy. The enzymes need to be present simultaneously with the food to aid in digestion.

C) Take the medication with meals.
Pancrelipase, such as Cotazym, is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy used to aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in individuals with pancreatic insufficiency. Taking the medication with meals is crucial because it helps to ensure that the enzymes are available to aid in the digestion of food. Without proper enzyme supplementation during meals, individuals with pancreatic insufficiency may experience malabsorption, leading to nutritional deficiencies and gastrointestinal symptoms.

D) Decrease fluid intake:
Decreasing fluid intake is not appropriate as it could lead to dehydration and may not have any significant impact on the efficacy of pancrelipase. In fact, adequate fluid intake is important for digestion and overall health.

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After administering an inotropic medication to a patient in shock, the nurse monitors the patient for signs of:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

In the plan of care, the most important intervention for a patient experiencing shock is assessing:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Which instruction is most appropriate for a client who is prescribed pancrelipase (Cotazym)?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A client presents with shock in the hospital, and has a history of a recent infection. What does the nurse suspect that this client is experiencing: