Following surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a patient's central venous pressure (CVP) monitor indicates low pressures. Which action is a priority for the nurse to take?
a. Administer IV diuretic medications.
b. Increase the IV fluid infusion per protocol.
c. Document the CVP and continue to monitor.
d. Elevate the head of the patient's bed to 45 degrees.
ANS: B
A low CVP indicates hypovolemia and a need for an increase in the infusion rate. Diuretic administration will contribute to hypovolemia and elevation of the head may decrease cerebral perfusion. Documentation and continued monitoring is an inadequate response to the low CVP.
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