Which nursing action is an example of a surveillance or monitoring intervention related to homeostasis?

• A. Administering medication to reduce fever
• B. Assisting a patient with physical therapy exercises
• C. Providing patient education on diet
• D. Measuring a patient's vital signs regularly

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of homeostasis: Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. It involves various physiological processes that regulate factors like temperature, pH, and fluid balance.
2. Identify the role of surveillance or monitoring interventions: These interventions are actions taken to observe and assess a patient's condition to ensure that homeostasis is maintained. They involve regular checks and measurements to detect any deviations from normal ranges.
3. Consider the examples provided: Administering medication, assisting with exercises, and providing education are active interventions aimed at changing or supporting a patient's condition. In contrast, measuring vital signs is a passive monitoring activity.
4. Recognize the importance of vital signs: Vital signs include measurements such as temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure. These are key indicators of a patient's physiological state and are crucial for assessing homeostasis.
5. Conclude that measuring vital signs regularly is a surveillance or monitoring intervention: This action involves observing and recording data to ensure that the patient's body systems are functioning within normal limits, thereby supporting homeostasis.