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Multiple Choice
In a client experiencing severe sepsis, which assessment finding would a nurse most likely expect?
A
Decreased respiratory rate
B
Increased blood pressure
C
Elevated heart rate
D
Hypothermia
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the condition: Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Severe sepsis involves organ dysfunction.
Recognize common physiological responses: In severe sepsis, the body often responds with increased heart rate (tachycardia) as it tries to maintain adequate blood flow to organs.
Consider the body's compensatory mechanisms: The heart rate increases to compensate for decreased blood pressure and to ensure that enough oxygen and nutrients are delivered to tissues.
Evaluate other symptoms: While hypothermia can occur, it is less common than fever. Decreased respiratory rate is not typical; instead, an increased rate is more common as the body attempts to meet oxygen demands.
Conclude with the most likely finding: Given the body's compensatory mechanisms in severe sepsis, an elevated heart rate is a common and expected assessment finding.