In a patient with septic shock, which complication will the nurse remain alert for?

Neurogenic shock.

Febrile seizures.

Esophageal varices.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason: Neurogenic shock is a type of distributive shock that occurs due to a sudden loss of sympathetic nervous system signals to the smooth muscle in vessel walls. It is not a direct complication of septic shock, which is primarily caused by severe infection and systemic inflammation. While both are forms of shock, the mechanisms and causes are different.

Choice B reason: Febrile seizures are typically seen in children with high fevers and are not a common complication of septic shock in adults. Septic shock involves severe infection and systemic inflammatory response, leading to complications such as organ failure rather than febrile seizures.

Choice C reason: Esophageal varices are enlarged veins in the esophagus that can bleed, often seen in patients with liver disease and portal hypertension. They are not a complication of septic shock. While severe infection and systemic inflammation can lead to various complications, esophageal varices are specifically related to liver pathology.

Choice D reason: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a severe complication that the nurse should remain alert for in patients with septic shock. ARDS is characterized by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs, leading to respiratory failure. It is a common and serious complication of septic shock due to the systemic inflammatory response affecting the lung tissue. Early recognition and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Warfarin is an anticoagulant commonly used in patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent the formation of blood clots. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke due to the potential for blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain. Warfarin helps reduce this risk by thinning the blood and preventing clot formation.

Choice B reason: Atropine is used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate) and is not typically used for patients with atrial fibrillation. Its primary function is to increase the heart rate by blocking the vagus nerve's effects on the heart. In the context of atrial fibrillation, anticoagulation is more crucial to prevent complications like stroke.

Choice C reason: Dobutamine is an inotropic agent used to increase cardiac output in patients with heart failure or cardiogenic shock. It is not used for managing atrial fibrillation. Dobutamine works by stimulating the heart to pump more effectively but does not address the risks associated with atrial fibrillation, such as blood clot formation.

Choice D reason: Magnesium sulfate is used to treat various conditions, including torsades de pointes (a type of abnormal heart rhythm) and severe asthma attacks. It is not typically used for atrial fibrillation. The focus in atrial fibrillation management is on controlling the heart rate or rhythm and preventing thromboembolic complications with anticoagulation therapy.

A. Urine output increases to 35 mL/hr. B. Heart rate decreases to 105 beats/min. C. Systolic blood pressure increases to 85 mmHg. D. Right atrial pressure decreases.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: An increase in urine output to 35 mL/hr is the best indication of improved perfusion. Urine output is a direct measure of kidney function and perfusion. When the kidneys receive adequate blood flow, they are able to produce urine. An increase in urine output indicates that the patient's kidneys are being perfused more effectively, which is a reliable sign of overall improved perfusion status.

Choice B reason: A decrease in heart rate to 105 beats/min is a positive sign, as it indicates a reduction in the stress response and an improvement in hemodynamic status. However, it is not as direct an indicator of improved perfusion as urine output. Heart rate can be influenced by many factors, and while a lower heart rate is generally a good sign, it does not specifically indicate improved organ perfusion.

Choice C reason: An increase in systolic blood pressure to 85 mmHg is an indication of improved hemodynamic stability, but it is not as sensitive a measure of perfusion as urine output. Blood pressure provides information about the pressure within the arteries but does not directly indicate how well the organs and tissues are being perfused.

Choice D reason: A decrease in right atrial pressure is not typically an indicator of improved perfusion. Right atrial pressure reflects the pressure in the right atrium of the heart, which can be influenced by various factors, including fluid status and cardiac function. It is not a direct measure of perfusion to vital organs and tissues.

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In a patient with septic shock, which complication will the nurse remain alert for?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient with atrial fibrillation. In addition to an antidysrhythmic, what medication does the nurse plan to administer?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A patient who is in hypovolemic shock has the following clinical signs: BP 80/55 mmHg, heart rate 120 beats/min, and urine output of 20 mL/hr. After administering an IV fluid bolus, which of these signs is the best indication of improved perfusion?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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