Final answer:
The nurse's plan of care for early intervention in shock should include monitoring changes in vital signs, assessing at-risk patients, administering IV fluids, and using vasoconstrictive medications as required, but not the prophylactic administration of packed red blood cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
When addressing early intervention in the continuum of shock, a nurse should include the following actions in the plan of care to improve a patient's prognosis:
- Monitor for changes in vital signs.
- Assess the patient who is at risk for shock.
- Administer intravenous fluids as indicated for fluid resuscitation.
- Administer vasoconstrictive medications when necessary to maintain vascular tone.
Monitoring for changes in vital signs is crucial as alterations can indicate the progression towards shock. Assessing patients who are at risk enables early detection and proactive management. IV fluids are often used to counteract hypovolemic shock, which may be due to hemorrhage or fluid losses from other causes like severe vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive urine loss in conditions like diabetes insipidus or ketoacidosis. Vasoconstrictive medications such as dopamine, epinephrine, or norepinephrine can help raise blood pressure and improve circulation during circulatory shock.
It is important to note that prophylactic packed red blood cells are not typically administered to patients at risk for shock without active hemorrhage; this intervention is more specific and should be guided by clinical indications. Early intervention and vigilant monitoring can prevent the progression of shock and improve patient outcomes.