A nurse is caring for an adolescent who has been admitted to the PICU with a diagnosis of septic shock. The nurse notes the following :
When planning care for this client, the nurse should anticipate a provider's prescription for which of the following?
Broad-spectrum antibiotics and fluid boluses
Antipyretics and oxygen therapy
Vasopressors and blood transfusions
Corticosteroids and antihistamines
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are indicated for septic shock caused by bacterial infection, as they can target a wide range of pathogens and prevent further sepsis. Fluid boluses are also essential to restore the intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion and oxygenation.
Choice B reason: Antipyretics and oxygen therapy are not sufficient to treat septic shock, as they do not address the underlying infection or the hypovolemia. Antipyretics may lower the temperature, but they do not eliminate the bacteria. Oxygen therapy may improve the pulse oximeter reading, but it does not correct the hypoperfusion.
Choice C reason: Vasopressors and blood transfusions are not the first-line treatments for septic shock, as they may have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system and the coagulation cascade. Vasopressors may increase the blood pressure, but they may also cause vasoconstriction and reduce the blood flow to vital organs. Blood transfusions may increase the hemoglobin level, but they may also increase the risk of fluid overload, hemolysis, and transfusion reactions.
Choice D reason: Corticosteroids and antihistamines are not indicated for septic shock, as they do not have any proven benefits and may have harmful effects on the immune system and the inflammatory response. Corticosteroids may suppress the adrenal function and increase the risk of infection. Antihistamines may cause sedation and dryness of the mucous membranes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Maintaining the infant in the supine position is not an appropriate intervention, as it can increase the pressure on the myelomeningocele sac and cause further damage to the spinal cord. The nurse should position the infant prone or side-lying, with the head turned to one side and the hips flexed.
Choice B reason: Limiting visitors to immediate family members is not a necessary intervention, as the infant does not have an infectious condition that requires isolation. The nurse should encourage the parents and other family members to visit and bond with the infant, and provide emotional support and education.
Choice C reason: Initiating contact precautions is not a required intervention, as the infant does not have a contagious condition that poses a risk of transmission to others. The nurse should follow standard precautions, such as washing hands, wearing gloves, and disposing of contaminated materials properly.
Choice D reason: Providing a latex-free environment is an essential intervention, as the infant has a high risk of developing a latex allergy due to the frequent exposure to latex products during surgery and other procedures. The nurse should avoid using latex gloves, catheters, syringes, bandages, or other items that contain latex, and use alternative materials instead. The nurse should also label the infant's chart, crib, and door with a latex allergy alert.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hypovolemia is a condition of low blood volume due to fluid loss from the burn injury. It can cause decreased urine output, hypotension, tachycardia, and poor skin turgor. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, fluid intake and output, and weight. The nurse should administer lactated Ringer's solution to maintain urine output of 30 ml/hr.
Choice B reason: Hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood due to cellular damage from the burn injury. It can cause peaked T waves, dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and cardiac arrest. The nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels, electrocardiogram, and cardiac status. The nurse should avoid administering potassium-containing fluids or medications.
Choice C reason: Hypocalcemia is a condition of low calcium levels in the blood due to fluid shifts from the burn injury. It can cause positive Chvostek's sign, tetany, seizures, and hypotension. The nurse should monitor the client's serum calcium levels, neurological status, and blood pressure. The nurse should administer calcium supplements as prescribed.
Choice D reason: Hypernatremia is a condition of high sodium levels in the blood due to fluid loss from the burn injury. It can cause dry mucous membranes, thirst, agitation, and seizures. The nurse should monitor the client's serum sodium levels, hydration status, and mental status. The nurse should administer hypotonic fluids as prescribed.
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