If a client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm suddenly experiences severe back pain and an increased heart rate, what should the nurse do?

In the scenario involving a client with an abdominal aortic aneurysm experiencing severe back pain and an increased heart rate, the best course of action is to immediately contact the health care provider. This response is critical because these symptoms could indicate a potential complication, such as a rupture of the aneurysm, which is a surgical emergency. A ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm can lead to significant internal bleeding and requires prompt evaluation and intervention.

The sudden onset of severe back pain coupled with an increased heart rate may suggest that the aneurysm is causing pressure on surrounding structures or that the vascular integrity is compromised, potentially leading to life-threatening situations. Therefore, timely communication with the healthcare provider is essential to ensure the client receives the necessary assessment and intervention without delay.

In this context, waiting for the next scheduled assessment would be inappropriate as the current situation could escalate quickly. Performing a focused physical assessment may be helpful, but it should not replace the need for immediate consultation with the healthcare provider, as the clinical situation may require rapid intervention beyond the scope of a focused assessment. Administering pain medication might provide some relief, but it does not address the underlying critical nature of the symptoms. The priority must be to ensure comprehensive evaluation and management by the appropriate medical professional.