Question

The graduate licensed practical nurse is assigned to care for the client on ventilator support, pending organ donation. Which goal should receive priority? A. Maintain the client's systolic blood pressure at \(70 \mathrm{mmHg}\) or greater B. Maintain the client's urinary output greater than \(300 \mathrm{cc}\) per hour C. Maintain the client's body temperature of greater than \(33^{\circ} \mathrm{F}\) rectal D. Maintain the client's hematocrit less than \(30 \%\)

Short answer

Answer: Option A) maintaining systolic blood pressure at \(70 \mathrm{mmHg}\) or greater.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each option

In order to select the priority goal for the client, we need to evaluate each option one by one, considering their relevance to organ donation. Option A: Maintaining the client's systolic blood pressure is crucial for maintaining organ perfusion, which is essential to maintain viable organs for transplantation. Option B: Maintaining the client's urinary output is important for monitoring kidney function and providing an indication of other potential organ issues. Option C: Ensuring the client's body temperature is adequately maintained is necessary for general patient care; however, it might not be directly related to the viability of organs for transplantation. Option D: Maintaining the client's hematocrit level has an influence on oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood. A low level can negatively impact organ function.

Identify the priority goal

Considering the significance of each option in the context of organ donation, the priority goal should be the one that has the most direct impact on maintaining organ viability. In this case, the priority should be maintaining proper organ perfusion.

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis, the priority goal should be to maintain the client's systolic blood pressure at \(70 \mathrm{mmHg}\) or greater (Option A). This is essential for providing adequate organ perfusion and ensuring that organs remain viable for transplantation.