During morning rounds, a practical nurse evaluates an 82-year-old client who was admitted the previous day for a severe urinary tract infection. Which specific assessment finding is the highest priority to communicate immediately to the registered nurse?
- A pulse rate of 115 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 94/60 mm HgCevap
- BMild disorientation to the current date and the time of day
- CA white blood cell count of 13,500/mm³ on the morning laboratory report
- DReports of suprapubic discomfort and lower back aching rated as a 4 out of 10
Cevap
The vital signs showing a heart rate of 115 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 94/60 mm Hg.
The correct answer identifies subtle signs of hemodynamic instability. A heart rate of 115 beats per minute combined with a blood pressure of 94/60 mm Hg are critical indicators of early sepsis or hypovolemic shock. According to clinical prioritization frameworks, circulatory collapse is a life-threatening emergency that must be addressed immediately by the registered nurse and provider to prevent irreversible organ damage.
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Anahtar Kavram
Early Recognition of Shock and Hemodynamic Instability