Question

The nurse is caring for a patient at risk for septic shock from a wound infection. In order to prevent systemic inflammatory response syndrome, the nurse's priority is to monitor which factor?

1) Patient's pulse rate and quality
2) Patient's electrolyte imbalance
3) Localized infected area
4) Patient's intake and output

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor the patient's pulse rate and quality to prevent systemic inflammatory response syndrome and septic shock in a patient at risk from a wound infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's priority in preventing systemic inflammatory response syndrome and septic shock in a patient with a wound infection is to monitor the patient's pulse rate and quality. Septic shock is characterized by a dangerous drop in blood pressure, and monitoring the pulse rate can provide important information about the patient's cardiovascular function.

An increased heart rate can signify the body's response to infection and potential progression towards sepsis and septic shock. By closely monitoring the patient's pulse rate and quality, the nurse can detect early signs of septic shock and promptly initiate appropriate interventions to prevent its development.