Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(Sean Pound) #1

(^164) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
PROGNOSIS
Prognosis depends on the general state of the patient, on the type of bacteria, how
quickly a definitive diagnosis is made, and the originating source(s) of the bac-
teremia. Mortality rates vary from 40 to 80 percent.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS



  • Nausea and vomiting from the source of the infection

  • Temperature over 101°F due to infection

  • Hypotension due to fluid displacement, vasodilation

  • Tachycardia from fever and infection

  • Tachypnea from fever and infection

  • Lactic acidosis results from poor oxygenation


INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS



  • WBC 15,000 to 30,000—indicates infection.

  • Decreased platelet count—blood coagulopathies are common in shock.

  • Abnormal PT and PTT—blood coagulopathies.


TREATMENT


Treatment results depends on the individual. Varying responses are due to the vari-
able immune and inflammatory responses of each patient and their comorbidities.
Treatment depends on identifying the organism, the source of the bacteremia, the
appropriate antibiotic, and maintaining normal vital signs.


  • Antibiotic specific for the type of bacteria present.

  • Fluid resuscitation.


NURSING DIAGNOSES



  • Decreased cardiac output

  • Deficient fluid volume

  • Skin integrity

Free download pdf