A nurse caring for a postoperative client exhibiting signs of hemorrhagic shock is instructed to monitor vital signs every 15 minutes and report back in 1 hour. What action should the nurse prioritize?

A nurse caring for a postoperative client exhibiting signs of hemorrhagic shock is instructed to monitor vital signs every 15 minutes and report back in 1 hour. What action should the nurse prioritize?

• A. Document the provider's statement in medical records
• B. Complete an incident report
• C. Consult the facility's risk manager
• D. Notify the nursing manager

Answer: (D)

In a situation where a postoperative client is exhibiting signs of hemorrhagic shock, the priority for the nurse is to ensure the safety and stability of the patient. Notifying the nursing manager is crucial because they can provide immediate guidance on the appropriate interventions, allocate additional resources if needed, or escalate the situation to the appropriate medical personnel. The nursing manager plays a vital role in overseeing patient care and addressing any critical issues that may arise, thereby ensuring that the client receives timely medical attention. While other actions may be necessary later, such as documenting in medical records or completing an incident report, the most urgent matter is ensuring that the patient is receiving optimal care and that any necessary interventions are implemented promptly. Engaging the nursing manager to assess the situation can also facilitate any required changes in monitoring or treatment protocols to address the client's deteriorating condition effectively.

In a situation where a postoperative client is exhibiting signs of hemorrhagic shock, the priority for the nurse is to ensure the safety and stability of the patient. Notifying the nursing manager is crucial because they can provide immediate guidance on the appropriate interventions, allocate additional resources if needed, or escalate the situation to the appropriate medical personnel. The nursing manager plays a vital role in overseeing patient care and addressing any critical issues that may arise, thereby ensuring that the client receives timely medical attention.

While other actions may be necessary later, such as documenting in medical records or completing an incident report, the most urgent matter is ensuring that the patient is receiving optimal care and that any necessary interventions are implemented promptly. Engaging the nursing manager to assess the situation can also facilitate any required changes in monitoring or treatment protocols to address the client's deteriorating condition effectively.