The nurse is managing a donor patient six hours prior to the scheduled harvesting of the patient's organs. Which assessment finding requires immediate action by the nurse?

Choice A reason:

A serum blood glucose level of 128 mg/dL is slightly elevated but not immediately concerning in the context of organ donation. Blood glucose levels can be managed with insulin if necessary, and this value does not indicate an acute issue requiring immediate intervention.

Choice B reason:

A blood pressure of 83/51 mmHg is critically low and requires immediate action. Low blood pressure can compromise organ perfusion and oxygen delivery, potentially leading to organ damage. In the context of organ donation, maintaining adequate perfusion pressure is essential to ensure the viability of the organs for transplantation.

Choice C reason:

A hemoglobin level of 13 g/dL is within the normal range and does not require immediate intervention. Hemoglobin levels are important for oxygen-carrying capacity but are not the priority concern six hours before organ harvesting if the value is within normal limits.

Choice D reason:

A core body temperature of 97.8 degrees F is slightly below normal but not immediately alarming. Mild hypothermia can be addressed with warming measures, and this temperature does not indicate a critical issue that requires urgent action.

Choice A reason:

Young adults ages 12-20 are at risk for spinal cord injuries due to sports and recreational activities. However, the highest risk group for spinal cord injuries, particularly from activities such as motor vehicle accidents and risky behaviors, is young men ages 16-30.

Choice B reason:

Young men ages 16-30 are the highest risk group for spinal cord injuries. This population is more likely to engage in high-risk activities such as driving, contact sports, and recreational activities that can lead to spinal cord injuries. Therefore, they would benefit most from targeted prevention education.

Choice C reason:

Children ages 2-15 are at risk for spinal cord injuries, particularly from falls and accidents. However, their risk is lower compared to the young adult male population. Education for this group is important but not as critical as for young men.

Choice D reason:

Elderly people ages 60 and up are at risk for spinal cord injuries, primarily from falls. While prevention education is important for this group, they are not the highest risk population compared to young men ages 16-30.