High School

The nurse is assessing a client with acute pancreatitis. During the assessment, the nurse finds the following vital signs: T 97.8, RR 14, BP 90/60, HR 122. Which prescription should the nurse anticipate?

1. Administer pain medication
2. Administer IV fluids
3. Administer antibiotics
4. Administer antiemetics

Answer :

Final answer:

In a client with acute pancreatitis showing signs of hypotension and tachycardia, the nurse should anticipate the prescription of administering IV fluids (2) to address potential hypovolemia and ensure hemodynamic stability.

Explanation:

The nurse is assessing a client with acute pancreatitis and notes vital signs of T 97.8, RR 14, BP 90/60, and HR 122. These signs indicate hypotension and tachycardia, which are concerning for potential hypovolemia, a common complication in acute pancreatitis due to fluid shifting into the abdominal cavity and third spacing. Therefore, administering IV fluids is the priority to address the hypovolemia, stabilize blood pressure, and improve circulation. While pain management, antibiotics for potential infection, and antiemetics for nausea are important aspects of pancreatitis care, the immediate concern centers on hemodynamic stability, making IV fluid resuscitation the anticipated prescription.

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