A client has not responded to IV fluids to raise blood pressure. Which medication does the nurse anticipate will be ordered?

Question

1. Whole blood
2. Additional crystalloids
3. Vasodilators
4. Vasopressors

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4

Rationale 1: Whole blood is incorrect because blood products are usually given as components, and would only be necessary if the client were hemorrhaging.
Rationale 2: Additional crystalloids is incorrect because the client did not respond to IV fluids, and a vasopressor will be given.
Rationale 3: Vasodilators is incorrect because this type of medication would further lower blood pressure.
Rationale 4: The body's ability to compensate is limited, and profound hypotension can develop as shock progresses. In severe cases, vasoconstrictors, also called vasopressors, might be needed to help stabilize blood pressure. Because of the potential for serious adverse effects and potential organ damage due to the rapid and intense vasoconstriction, vasopressors are used only after fluid infusions have failed to raise blood pressure.

Global Rationale: The body's ability to compensate is limited, and profound hypotension can develop as shock progresses. In severe cases, vasoconstrictors, also called vasopressors, might be needed to help stabilize blood pressure. Because of the potential for serious adverse effects and potential organ damage due to the rapid and intense vasoconstriction, vasopressors are used only after fluid infusions have failed to raise blood pressure. Whole blood is incorrect because blood products are usually given as components, and would only be necessary if the client were hemorrhaging. Additional crystalloids is incorrect because the client did not respond to IV fluids, and a vasopressor will be given. Vasodilators is incorrect because this type of medication would further lower blood pressure.