Question

Which nursing intervention is most important in preventing septic shock?

A. Administering IV fluid replacement therapy as prescribed.
B. Obtaining vital signs every 4 hours for all clients.
C. Monitoring red blood cell counts for elevation.
D. Maintaining asepsis of indwelling urinary catheters.

Answer 1

The most important nursing intervention to prevent septic shock is maintaining asepsis of indwelling urinary catheters, as these are common sources of infection that can lead to septic shock, which can cause severe complications including death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important nursing intervention in preventing septic shock is maintaining asepsis of indwelling urinary catheters. Indwelling catheters are common life-saving interventions for patients requiring long-term administration of medication or fluids but can also be common sites of bloodstream infections. Maintaining strict aseptic technique is crucial to preventing catheter-related bloodstream infections, which can lead to sepsis and subsequent septic shock. Infections such as pneumonia, intra-abdominal, and urinary tract infections associated with these catheters can also lead to septic shock, characterized by an overwhelming immune response causing hypotension, blood clotting, multiple organ failure, and potentially death.

While obtaining vital signs every 4 hours, monitoring red blood cell counts for elevation, and administering IV fluid replacement therapy as prescribed are also essential in sepsis management, they are more applicable after septic shock has begun, rather than preventive measures.