What signs and symptoms should a nurse monitor for in a client at risk for hypovolemic shock after fractures?

Monitoring for signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock is crucial, especially in clients who have experienced fractures, as these injuries can lead to significant blood loss. The correct signs to watch for include oliguria, indicated by decreased urine output, and tachycardia, which is an increased heart rate.

Oliguria occurs because the kidneys receive less blood flow when the body is experiencing a state of shock, leading to reduced urine production. This reflects the body’s attempt to conserve fluid and maintain adequate blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs. Tachycardia, on the other hand, is a compensatory mechanism where the heart rate increases in an effort to maintain adequate cardiac output despite the reduced circulating blood volume.

These symptoms are critical indicators that a client is potentially entering a state of hypovolemic shock, prompting immediate assessment and intervention by the healthcare team to prevent further complications.