Final answer:
Indicators of tissue perfusion in critically ill patients that nurses should monitor include skin characteristics, urine output, consciousness level, vital signs with pulse oximetry, and peripheral pulses with capillary refill.
Step-by-step explanation:
The indicators of tissue perfusion that should be monitored in critically ill patients by the nurse include:
- Skin: Its temperature, color, and the presence of any cyanosis or pallor can indicate poor perfusion.
- Urine output: A decrease may suggest inadequate kidney perfusion, potentially indicating circulatory shock.
- Level of consciousness: Changes can be a sign of decreased cerebral perfusion.
- Vital signs, including pulse oximetry: These provide critical information about the patient's hemodynamic status and oxygenation.
- Peripheral pulses with capillary refill: These assess the adequacy of blood flow to the extremities.
It is essential for the nurse to continuously assess these indicators as changes may be indicative of disease or a life-threatening condition such as circulatory shock, where the body cannot maintain adequate blood flow and oxygen supply to the tissues