Question

The nurse is caring for a patient after kidney surgery. The nurse is aware that bleeding is a major complication of kidney surgery and that if it goes undetected and untreated can result in hypovolemia and hemorrhagic shock in the patient. When assessing for bleeding, what assessment parameter should the nurse evaluate?

A) Oral intake
B) Pain intensity
C) Level of consciousness
D) Radiation of pain

Answer 1

When assessing for bleeding after kidney surgery, a nurse should prioritize evaluating the patient's level of consciousness as it may indicate the development of hypovolemia and hemorrhagic shock, which can cause changes in mental status.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse should evaluate when assessing for bleeding after kidney surgery is C) Level of consciousness.

Bleeding is a major complication of kidney surgery that can lead to hypovolemia and hemorrhagic shock. It's vital for the nurse to monitor the patient for signs of reduced blood volume and shock, which can include changes in the level of consciousness. Patients in shock can present with an increased heart rate but decreased blood pressure. They might also have a drop in urine output, manifest confusion, or lose consciousness. Other symptoms of hypovolemic shock may include a weak, 'thready' pulse; cool, clammy skin; rapid, shallow breathing; hypothermia; thirst; and a dry mouth.

Treatment for this kind of shock generally involves administering intravenous fluids and medications like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine to raise blood pressure, along with close monitoring of urine output and vital signs.