Question

When caring for a patient with cardiogenic shock and possible multiple organ dysfunction syndrome-MODS, which information obtained by the nurse will help confirm the diagnosis of MODS?

a. The patient has crackles throughout both lung fields.
b. The patient complains of 8/10 crushing chest pain.
c. The patient has an elevated ammonia level and confusion.
d. The patient has cool extremities and weak pedal pulses.

Answer 1

To confirm a diagnosis of MODS in a patient with cardiogenic shock, the key information is the elevated ammonia level and confusion, which indicates involvement of multiple organs, including the liver.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a patient with cardiogenic shock and possible multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), the information that will help confirm the diagnosis of MODS is option c: The patient has an elevated ammonia level and confusion. This indicates that there is a liver function abnormality which, in addition to the heart, suggests multi-organ involvement. Crackles in the lungs could signify a respiratory issue such as pneumonia or pulmonary edema, while chest pain is more indicative of the cardiac event that may have precipitated the cardiogenic shock. Cool extremities and weak pedal pulses suggest poor perfusion possibly due to the shock state, but not necessarily multi-organ failure.