The nurse is caring for a client who develops signs and symptoms of septic shock following a urinary tract infection one week ago.The healthcare provider prescribes a sepsis protocol to be initiated.Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale:Keeping the head of the bed raised 45 degrees is a crucial intervention in septic shock. This position helps improve oxygenation and reduces the risk of aspiration. It promotes better lung function and can help maintain a higher mean arterial pressure, which is important in the management of sepsis.Choice B rationale:Maintaining strict intake and output is important for assessing fluid balance, but it is not the most critical intervention when a client is in septic shock. Hemodynamic stability and oxygenation take precedence in this situation.Choice C rationale:Monitoring blood glucose levels is an essential aspect of care, especially in critically ill patients. However, it is not the most important intervention in the immediate management of septic shock.Choice D rationale:Assessing the warmth of extremities is important for circulatory assessment, but it is not the most crucial intervention in septic shock. Hemodynamic support and maintaining oxygenation are higher priorities.