ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate action when a patient exhibits high fever and confusion?

1. Provide fluids

2. Administer antipyretics

3. Assess for shock

4. Deliver oxygen therapy

The correct answer is: Assess for shock

When a patient presents with high fever and confusion, the most appropriate action is to assess for shock because these symptoms can indicate a potential severe underlying condition, such as an infection leading to septic shock or another systemic response. Shock manifests through a series of physiological changes that can quickly become life-threatening. By assessing for shock, healthcare providers can identify critical signs like decreased blood pressure, tachycardia, or altered mental status, which require immediate intervention. Recognizing shock early allows for timely treatment, which may involve fluid resuscitation, medications, or other interventions aimed at stabilizing the patient. This assessment provides crucial information that guides further clinical decisions and prioritizes the patient's immediate needs. While providing fluids or administering antipyretics may also be necessary as part of the overall treatment plan, they should follow an initial assessment where the patient’s status is thoroughly evaluated. Oxygen therapy could also be warranted depending on the findings, but without first determining whether shock is present, these interventions may not address the most urgent issue.