Final answer:
Early organ ischemia in DIC can be indicated by symptoms such as alterations in mental status, a slight decrease in urine output, and a bluish discoloration of the fingertips, which suggest compromised circulation to the brain, kidneys, and extremities respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse admits a client with suspected early disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Symptoms that may indicate early organ ischemia include:
- Alterations in mental status - Confusion or changes in cognitive function can be an early sign of decreased blood flow to the brain.
- Slight decrease to urine output - This can suggest renal ischemia as the kidneys receive less blood flow, which may lead to acute kidney injury.
- Bluish discoloration of fingertips or cyanosis - This can occur due to decreased oxygenation in the extremities, indicating impaired circulation.
Other symptoms of early DIC like slight gingival bleeding or petechial hemorrhage to the chest indicate bleeding complications but do not directly signify organ ischemia.