The client is experiencing septic shock. What assessment finding would the nurse expect to find?

• A. Bradycardia and increased urine output
• B. Hypertension and warm, flushed skin
• C. Hypotension despite adequate fluid resuscitation
• D. Increased blood pressure and decreased respiratory rate

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the condition: Septic shock is a severe and potentially fatal condition that occurs when an infection leads to dangerously low blood pressure and abnormalities in cellular metabolism.
2. Identify typical symptoms: In septic shock, the body experiences widespread inflammation, leading to vasodilation and decreased systemic vascular resistance, which results in hypotension.
3. Consider fluid resuscitation: Despite adequate fluid resuscitation, hypotension persists in septic shock due to the inability of the blood vessels to constrict properly.
4. Recognize skin changes: Patients may have warm, flushed skin initially due to vasodilation, but as shock progresses, skin may become cool and clammy.
5. Evaluate other vital signs: Bradycardia is not typical in septic shock; instead, tachycardia is common as the body attempts to compensate for low blood pressure. Urine output may decrease due to poor perfusion of the kidneys.