The nurse is caring for a patient in the ICU whose condition is deteriorating. The nurse receives orders to initiate an infusion of dopamine. What would be the priority assessment and interventions specific to the administration of vasoactive medications?

Question

A) Frequent monitoring of vital signs, monitoring the central line site, and providing accurate drug titration
B) Reviewing medications, performing a focused cardiovascular assessment, and providing patient education
C) Reviewing the laboratory findings, monitoring urine output, and assessing for peripheral edema
D) Routine monitoring of vital signs, monitoring the peripheral IV site, and providing early discharge instructions

Answer 1

Ans: A
Feedback:
When vasoactive medications are administered, vital signs must be monitored frequently (at least every 15 minutes until stable, or more often if indicated). Vasoactive medications should be administered through a central venous line because infiltration and extravasation of some vasoactive medications can cause tissue necrosis and sloughing. An IV pump should be used to ensure that the medications are delivered safely and accurately. Individual medication dosages are usually titrated by the nurse, who adjusts drip rates based on the prescribed dose and the patient's response. Reviewing medications, performing a focused cardiovascular assessment, and providing patient education are important nursing tasks, but they are not specific to the administration of IV vasoactive drugs. Reviewing the laboratory findings, monitoring urine output, and assessing for peripheral edema are not the priorities for administration of IV vasoactive drugs. Vital signs are taken on a frequent basis when monitoring administration of IV vasoactive drugs, vasoactive medications should be administered through a central venous line, and early discharge instructions would be inappropriate in this time of crisis.