A 68-year-old female presents to the emergency department with confusion, fever, and rapid breathing. Her vital signs are: BP 85/50 mmHg, HR 120 bpm, RR 28/min, Temp 39.5°C (103.1°F), and SpO2 94% on room air. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial intervention?
The correct answer is to administer IV fluids. In sepsis, early aggressive fluid resuscitation is crucial to improve tissue perfusion and organ function. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend rapid administration of 30 mL/kg of crystalloid fluid within the first 3 hours for patients with sepsis-induced hypoperfusion. This patient shows signs of sepsis (confusion, fever, tachypnea) and hypotension, indicating the need for immediate fluid resuscitation.
While oxygen therapy and obtaining blood cultures are also important in managing sepsis, fluid resuscitation takes priority due to the patient's hypotension. Administering vasopressors is typically considered after initial fluid resuscitation if the patient remains hypotensive, making it premature as an initial intervention in this scenario.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What is sepsis?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is fluid resuscitation prioritized in sepsis management?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
BCEN CEN
Medical Emergencies
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access