What is a manifestation of hypovolemia that a nurse should identify when collecting data from a client with blood loss?

Study for the VATI Fundamental Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam today!

A thready pulse is a manifestation of hypovolemia because it indicates that the body is experiencing insufficient blood volume to maintain effective circulation. In patients with blood loss, the body often compensates for decreased blood volume by increasing heart rate and vascular resistance, which can lead to a weak and rapid pulse. This thready quality reflects the heart's struggle to pump sufficient blood due to reduced circulating volume.

Monitoring for a thready pulse is crucial because it signals that the body is potentially in a state of shock or inadequate perfusion, warranting immediate assessment and possible intervention. Recognizing this can help the nurse prioritize care and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to stabilize the patient.

In contrast, the other options do not align as closely with the expected signs of hypovolemia. For instance, elevated blood pressure is generally not a sign of hypovolemia; it may even be low or normal due to compensatory mechanisms. Increased urine output typically occurs when blood volume is sufficient or when the body is properly hydrated, which would not be the case in hypovolemia. Bradycardia can occur under different conditions but is not a typical response to hypovolemia, where tachycardia is more common as the body tries to

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