The nurse in the intensive care unit (ICU)is caring for a patient diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).Vital signs prior to endotracheal intubation: HR 108 bpm,RR 32 bpm,BP 88/58 mm Hg,and oxygen saturation 82%.The patient is intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation with positive pressure ventilation.Which assessment finding indicates a further decrease of cardiac output secondary to positive pressure ventilation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A decrease in urine output indicates a decrease in cardiac output, which can be a potential complication of positive pressure ventilation. Blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg is within normal range and does not necessarily indicate a decrease in cardiac output. An increase in heart rate of only 2 bpm may not be significant, as the patient was already tachycardic prior to intubation. An oxygen saturation of 90% is also within an acceptable range and does not necessarily indicate a decrease in cardiac output.

The Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)is Caring for a Patient