The nurse is caring for a patient who just returned had a laparoscopic appendectomy. The should monitor the patient for which early sign of hypovolemic shock?

 

1. Decreased respiration
2. Increased blood pressure
3. Altered mental status
4. Increased pulse rate
5. Excessive sleepiness

Correct answer is D. Increase pulse rate

The early sign of hypovolemic shock is tachycardia (increase pulse rate). Always think about the pathophysiology of the disease. This patient is most likely bleeding after surgery, causing hypotension and tachycardia.

 

Your test taking strategy should include recognizing “early” in the question as a strategic word. This means you must prioritize care.