An older adult client is recovering on the telemetry unit 2 hours after a cardiac catheterization performed via the right femoral artery approach. During rounding, the client reports the sudden onset of a dull, continuous ache in the lower right back. The insertion site dressing remains clean and dry with no visible hematoma. Current vital signs reveal a blood pressure of 102/58 mmHg and a heart rate of 108 bpm, compared to a baseline of 134/76 mmHg and 72 bpm upon arrival. Based on these findings, what is the priority action for the practical nurse?
- Immediately report the findings to the supervising registered nurse.Cevap
- BAdminister a prescribed as-needed mild analgesic to treat the back discomfort.
- CRaise the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle to relieve the back pressure.
- DReassess the client's vital signs and back discomfort in 30 minutes.
Cevap
Immediately report the findings to the supervising registered nurse.
The correct action is to immediately escalate the situation. Following a femoral cardiac catheterization, bleeding can occur internally into the retroperitoneal space. Because the blood pools backward, the external groin dressing will remain dry, but the client will experience back or flank pain as the blood irritates the tissues. The shifting vital signs (rising heart rate, falling blood pressure) are early indicators of hypovolemic shock. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate RN and provider intervention.
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Anahtar Kavram
Recognition and escalation of early shock and retroperitoneal bleeding following femoral arterial procedures.