Question

The nurse is working in the preoperative holding area and is assigned to care for a patient who is having a prosthetic aortic valve placed. The nurse inserts an intravenous (IV) line and obtains vital signs. The patient has a temperature of 39° C (102° F), heart rate of 120, blood pressure (BP) of 84/50, and an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count. Why does the nurse immediately notify the surgeon of the patient's vital signs?

A. Elevated temperature indicates an infection.
B. Decreased blood pressure is a normal response to surgery.
C. Increased heart rate is expected during the preoperative period.
D. Elevated WBC count is a sign of successful surgery.

Answer 1

The nurse should alert the surgeon about the patient's abnormal vital signs indicating a potential infection and hemodynamic instability, which can contraindicate surgery and might require immediate medical intervention.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse must immediately notify the surgeon of the patient's vital signs because they suggest the presence of an infection and potential hemodynamic instability. The elevated temperature of 39° C (102° F) indicates the possibility of an infection, which is a risk factor for sepsis and a contraindication for surgery. The decreased blood pressure (BP of 84/50), elevated heart rate of 120 bpm, and elevated white blood cell (WBC) count further support the potential diagnosis of an infection or sepsis. These signs are alarming, especially in the preoperative setting, as they may indicate a systemic response that could lead to shock or other serious complications if not treated promptly.