Question

The nurse is monitoring the patient in shock. The patient begins bleeding from previous venipuncture sites, in the indwelling catheter, and rectum, and the nurse observes multiple areas of ecchymosis. What does the nurse suspect has developed in this patient?

A. Stress ulcer.
B. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
C. Septicemia.
D. Stevens-Johnson syndrome from the administration of antibiotics.

Answer 1

The patient showing signs of bleeding from various sites and displays of ecchymosis while in shock is likely developing Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), a severe coagulation disorder leading to excessive clotting and bleeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse observing a patient in shock with bleeding from previous venipuncture sites, in the indwelling catheter, and rectum, along with the presence of multiple areas of ecchymosis, would most likely suspect the development of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). This is a serious condition characterized by the abnormal activation of blood clotting in small blood vessels throughout the body, leading to the formation of clots that can block blood flow and cause damage to organs.

As these tiny clots consume coagulation proteins and platelets, severe bleeding can occur through different areas of the body, including such sites as previous venipuncture. This excessive clotting and subsequent bleeding can lead to multiple organ failure and is typically triggered by another illness, such as infection, cancer, or severe injury.