Case Study Scenario: A 55-year-old patient with a history of…
Case Study Scenario: A 55-year-old patient with a history of diabetes presents to the emergency department with signs and symptoms of septic shock, including fever, hypotension, tachycardia, and confusion. Blood cultures were just drawn, and recent laboratory results show elevated white blood cell count, elevated lactate, and renal impairment (elevated creatinine). The patient is not responding to the initial fluid resuscitation. Vital Signs: BP 80/50 mmHg, HR 115 bpm, RR 28, SpO₂ 88%, and Temp 101.9°F (38.8°C) Lab Results: White Blood Cell Count: 18,000/µL Lactate: 4.2 mmol/L Creatinine: 2.1 mg/dL Arterial blood gas: pH 7.29, PaCO2 32 mmHg, HCO3 18 mEq/L Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize as an immediate action and which should be delayed?