In the emergency department, a patient’s vital signs are: blood pressure (BP), 66/40 mm Hg; pulse (P), 140 beats per minute (bpm); and respirations (R), 8 breaths per minute and shallow. The patient overdosed on illegally obtained hydromorphone (Dilaudid). Select the priority outcome.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because stabilizing the patient's vital signs is the top priority in this critical situation. A blood pressure of 66/40 mm Hg indicates severe hypotension, which can lead to organ failure. A pulse of 140 bpm and shallow respirations of 8 bpm indicate poor perfusion and respiratory distress. Achieving a BP greater than 90/60 mm Hg, P less than 100 bpm, and respirations at or above 12 bpm indicates improved perfusion and oxygenation, which are crucial for the patient's survival.
Option B is incorrect as achieving a drug-free state is not the immediate priority in an overdose situation. Option C is incorrect as attending Narcotics Anonymous meetings is important for long-term recovery but not the immediate priority. Option D is incorrect as identifying community resources for substance abuse treatment is important but not as critical as stabilizing the vital signs in an overdose situation.