Question

Following a motor vehicle collision, a client is admitted to the emergency department with a blood pressure of 88/46, pulse of 54 beats/min with a regular rhythm, and respirations of 20 breaths/min with clear lung sounds. The client's skin is dry and warm. The nurse assesses the client to be in which type of shock?

a) Cardiogenic
b) Septic
c) Neurogenic
d) Anaphylactic

Answer 1

c) Neurogenic The client's symptoms following a motor vehicle collision suggest neurogenic shock, characterized by low blood pressure, bradycardia, and warm, dry skin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following a motor vehicle collision, a client with a blood pressure of 88/46, pulse of 54 beats/min (bradycardia), and respirations of 20 breaths/min with clear lung sounds, whose skin is dry and warm, is most likely experiencing neurogenic shock. This type of shock can occur due to damage to the central nervous system, specifically the spinal cord or brain, affecting the tone and diameter of the blood vessels. The hallmark signs of neurogenic shock include hypotension, bradycardia, and warm, dry skin due to vasodilation. Unlike other forms of shock, such as septic shock or anaphylactic shock, neurogenic shock does not present with a rapid heart rate or cool, clammy skin.

The client's condition, with a blood pressure of 88/46, pulse of 54 beats/min with a regular rhythm, respirations of 20 breaths/min, and dry and warm skin, indicates hypovolemic shock. Hypovolemic shock occurs when there is a significant loss of blood or fluids, leading to inadequate blood flow to the tissues. The client's symptoms, such as weak pulse, cool skin, rapid breathing, and thirst, align with the characteristics of hypovolemic shock.