The client who is experiencing septic shock is started on norepinephrine by intravenous drip via pump. Which frequent assessments should the nurse prioritize while administering this medication? (Select All that Apply)
Color of conjunctiva
Deep tendon reflexes
IV Insertion site
Blood pressure and heart rate
Hourly urine output
Correct Answer : C,D,E
A. Color of conjunctiva
While assessing for signs of perfusion is important, conjunctival color is not a primary assessment for norepinephrine administration. Perfusion is better assessed through blood pressure, heart rate, capillary refill, and urine output.
B. Deep tendon reflexes
Norepinephrine primarily affects vascular tone and cardiac output. Deep tendon reflexes are not a priority assessment for this medication.
C. IV Insertion site
Norepinephrine is a vasopressor, and extravasation can cause severe tissue necrosis. Frequent monitoring of the IV site is necessary to prevent complications.
D. Blood pressure and heart rate
Norepinephrine increases blood pressure and heart rate through vasoconstriction. Continuous monitoring is required to assess for excessive hypertension, tachycardia, or inadequate response to therapy.
E. Hourly urine output
Urine output is an essential indicator of organ perfusion. Since norepinephrine is used to maintain adequate blood pressure and perfusion in septic shock, monitoring urine output helps assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Diphenhydramine 50 mg PO
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) treats mild allergic reactions but is not sufficient for anaphylaxis. The presence of SOB and angioedema suggests airway compromise, requiring epinephrine.
B. Famotidine 40 mg PO
Famotidine (H2 blocker) can help with allergic reactions but is not the priority in an emergency.
C. Epinephrine 1 mg IM
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. It reverses airway swelling, hypotension, and bronchoconstriction. The standard IM dose is 0.3-0.5 mg, not 1 mg, but epinephrine remains the priority drug.
D. A fluid bolus of normal saline
IV fluids help treat hypotension in anaphylaxis, but epinephrine is the priority intervention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Deep purple erythema
This suggests bruising or possible hematoma formation, which is concerning but may not be immediately life-threatening.
B. Facial nerve deficits
This indicates nerve injury, which is serious but may not be immediately life-threatening.
C. Dysphonia or dysphagia
Dysphonia (difficulty speaking) or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) are signs of airway compromise or injury to structures involved in breathing and swallowing. This requires immediate attention.
D. Heart rate of 100 and blood pressure of 96/68
These vital signs indicate tachycardia and borderline hypotension, which are concerning, but the airway compromise (option C) is more immediately life-threatening.
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