The practical nurse (PN) reviews the electronic health record (EHR) of a client admitted with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. The client is receiving continuous intravenous hydration and methylprednisolone.
| Parameter | 04:00 (Previous) | 08:00 (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Rate | 88 bpm | 114 bpm |
| Blood Pressure | 118/76 mmHg | 102/64 mmHg |
| Temperature | 37.4°C (99.3°F) | 37.6°C (99.7°F) |
| Bowel Movements | 2 (liquid, bloody) | 4 (liquid, bright red) |
| Hemoglobin | 11.2 g/dL | 9.0 g/dL |
Based on the clinical trajectory and current data, which action should the PN take first to reduce the client's risk for severe complications?
- Immediately alert the supervising registered nurse regarding the hemodynamic trends and recent hemoglobin resultCevap
- BDocument the findings in the electronic health record and reassess the client's vital signs in two hours
- CPrepare to administer the client's scheduled daily dose of subcutaneous enoxaparin
- DInstruct the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to encourage the client to drink more oral fluids
Cevap
Immediately alert the supervising registered nurse regarding the hemodynamic trends and recent hemoglobin result
The client is demonstrating classic early signs of hypovolemic shock due to acute gastrointestinal bleeding. The rapidly dropping hemoglobin (decrease of 2.2 g/dL in just 4 hours), paired with resting tachycardia (114 bpm) and a narrowing pulse pressure, clearly indicates active blood loss. The most critical action within the practical nurse scope is to immediately escalate these findings to the supervising registered nurse so that life-saving interventions can be initiated.
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Anahtar Kavram
Recognition and Escalation of Early Hypovolemic Shock