Electrical burns over a large surface area of a client's body have resulted in hypovolemic shock after the loss of large amounts of blood and plasma

Question

Following physical assessment, which findings lead the nurse to believe the client's body is compensating for this fluid loss? Select all that apply.
A) Increased heart rate
B) Vasodilation with warm extremities
C) Diuresis with output of 100 mL/hour
D) The client complaining of extreme thirst
E) Deep, rapid respirations

Answer 1

Ans: A, D, E
Feedback:
Compensatory mechanisms in hypovolemic shock include increased heart rate, peripheral vasoconstriction, and fluid and sodium retention in order to preserve vascular volume. Urine output decreases very quickly in hypovolemic shock. Thirst is an early symptom in hypovolemic shock. As shock progresses, the respirations become rapid and deep to compensate for the increased production of acid and decreased availability of oxygen.