A patient is experiencing signs of a decrease in extravascular volume.Which should the nurse expect the patient to experience in response to this drop in volume?
stimulation of thirst center
When a patient experiences a decrease in extravascular volume, the nurse should expect the patient to experience a range of signs and symptoms related to the fluid loss. The specific signs and symptoms depend on the severity of the volume loss, but common manifestations include:
1. Thirst: the patient may feel thirsty due to the loss of fluids.
2. Weakness and fatigue: These symptoms may occur due to reduced blood volume, which leads to decreased oxygen and nutrient transportation.
3. Dizziness or fainting: Decreased blood volume and blood pressure can cause the brain to receive inadequate blood supply leading to lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
4. Dry mucous membranes: The loss of fluids causing the patient to have a dry mouth and throat.
5. Tachycardia: With decreased blood volume, the body may try to compensate for the drop in pressure by increasing heart rate.
6. Hypotension: Decreased extravascular volume can cause the blood pressure to go down, thereby leading to hypotension.
7. Decreased urine output: Reduced fluid volume can lead to decreased urine output as the body tries to conserve fluids.
In severe cases, a decrease in extravascular volume can result in shock, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
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