A patient with gastrointestinal bleeding is awake, alert, and oriented and has the following vital sign measurements: blood pressure 130/90 mm Hg, pulse 118 beats/minute, respirations 18/minute, and temperature 98.6°F (37°C). Which finding should the nurse consider as a possible sign of early shock?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The elevated heart rate (tachycardia) of 118 beats/min can be a compensatory mechanism in response to early shock, as the body attempts to maintain adequate circulation despite the underlying issue, in this case, gastrointestinal bleeding.

A Patient with Gastrointestinal Bleeding Is Awake, Alert, and Oriented