A patient is being treated for shock after a motor vehicle accident. The provider orders 6% dextran 75 to be given intravenously. The nurse should expect which outcome as the result of this infusion?a. Decreased urine outputb. Improved blood oxygenationc. Increased interstitial fluidd. Stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure
The correct answer is d
The correct answer is d. Stabilization of heart rate and blood pressure.
Dextran 75 is a type of plasma volume expander, which means it helps increase the fluid volume in the blood vessels. This can be beneficial in treating shock because shock often results in decreased blood volume and consequently decreased blood pressure. By infusing dextran 75, the nurse can help stabilize the heart rate and blood pressure by restoring the blood volume to a more adequate level.
a. Decreased urine output: While shock may result in decreased urine output due to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, dextran 75 infusion does not directly affect urine output.
b. Improved blood oxygenation: Dextran 75 infusion does not directly affect blood oxygenation. Oxygenation is more related to respiratory function and the ability of the blood to carry oxygen.
c. Increased interstitial fluid: Dextran 75 infusion does not lead to an increased accumulation of interstitial fluid. Its main action is to increase blood volume, not interstitial fluid volume.
It is important to note that while dextran 75 can be effective in stabilizing heart rate and blood pressure in the short term, there may be other interventions required to address the underlying cause of shock and ensure long-term stabilization of the patient’s condition.
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