Final answer:
The nurse should expect signs of dehydration, changes in vital signs, and consider the likelihood of an infection or other underlying causes after three days of vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration can present with symptoms like dry mouth, dizziness, and decreased urination. Intravenous fluids may be necessary if the patient is significantly dehydrated and cannot keep fluids down.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who has been vomiting and having diarrhea for the last three days could be experiencing symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. When a nurse encounters such a patient, they should expect the potential of dehydration due to the inability to retain fluids, alongside signs such as a decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and dizziness, particularly upon standing. Additionally, the nurse should monitor for changes in blood pressure and heart rate, which can be affected by dehydration.
Since diarrhea has persisted for more than three days, the nurse may also consider the likelihood of an infection or other underlying causes that could be contributing to the patient's condition. While vomiting and diarrhea are often self-limiting, chronic symptoms could indicate a more severe issue, requiring further investigation and possibly blood tests to check for any abnormalities.
The nurse must also be aware that not all cases of vomiting and diarrhea are treated with antibiotics, as some are caused by viruses or other non-bacterial pathogens. If dehydration is significant, the nurse should be prepared to administer intravenous fluids and other supportive care to manage the symptoms and prevent further complications.