Norepinephrine has been prescribed for a patient who was admitted with dehydration and hypotension. Which data indicate that the nurse should consult with the health care provider before starting the norepinephrine?

C Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by rapid, irregular electrical activity in the atria, leading to an irregularly irregular ventricular response. AF often results in palpitations, fatigue, and dizziness due to the irregular heart rhythm and inefficient cardiac output. A significant pulse deficit may also be present due to the irregularity of the ventricular response compared to the atrial activity. Given the sudden onset of irregular palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, and a significant pulse deficit, atrial fibrillation is a likely dysrhythmia in this scenario.

A First-degree AV block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval on the electrocardiogram (ECG), indicating delayed conduction between the atria and ventricles. While it can indicate conduction system abnormalities, it typically does not result in rapid or irregular palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness.

Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.

B Sinus tachycardia is characterized by a rapid heart rate originating from the sinus node, typically with a regular rhythm. While sinus tachycardia can cause palpitations and fatigue, it is less likely to result in an irregular heart rate with a significant pulse deficit. Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.

D Sinus bradycardia is characterized by a slow heart rate originating from the sinus node. While sinus bradycardia can cause fatigue and dizziness, it typically does not result in a rapid or irregular heart rate. Therefore, it is less likely to be the cause of the client's symptoms.

C Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is a classic symptom of circulatory overload. When the circulatory system is overloaded with excess fluid, it can lead to pulmonary congestion and impaired gas exchange, resulting in dyspnea. Patients experiencing circulatory overload may exhibit signs such as shortness of breath, increased respiratory rate, and crackles on lung auscultation.

A Flushing, or the sudden reddening of the skin, is not typically associated with circulatory overload. Instead, it can be a symptom of various conditions such as fever, allergic reactions, or hormonal changes. While circulatory overload may lead to fluid retention and increased blood volume, flushing is not a characteristic symptom.

B Vomiting is also not a typical symptom of circulatory overload. Vomiting can be caused by various factors such as anesthesia, pain medications, or postoperative ileus. While fluid overload can result in gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and abdominal discomfort, vomiting is not a specific indicator of circulatory overload.

D Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with circulatory overload. Instead, it can be caused by factors such as medications (e.g., opioids, beta-blockers), vagal stimulation, or underlying cardiac conditions. In circulatory overload, the body's compensatory response is often tachycardia (increased heart rate) rather than bradycardia.