The nurse is caring for Mr.Richards,who presented to the emergency department with fever,chills,nausea,and loss of appetite.How would the nurse test Mr.Richards for orthostatic hypotension?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Orthostatic hypotension refers to a drop in blood pressure upon standing. To test for orthostatic hypotension, the nurse should measure the patient's blood pressure in both the sitting and standing position. If the patient has orthostatic hypotension, there will be a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing. Raising the legs above heart level and measuring blood pressure is not a valid test for orthostatic hypotension. A normal saline fluid challenge may increase blood pressure, but it is not a specific test for orthostatic hypotension. Assessing for dependent edema is not a valid test for orthostatic hypotension.

The Nurse Is Caring for Mr