Adult Health Med Surg NCLEX Test Bank Related

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What is the earliest clinical manifestation in a client with acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)?

  • A. Severe shortness of breath.
  • B. Bleeding without history or cause.
  • C. Orthopnea.
  • D. Hematuria.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: DIC causes widespread clotting and bleeding due to consumption of clotting factors and platelets. The earliest manifestation is often unexplained bleeding, such as petechiae or oozing from venipuncture sites. Shortness of breath, orthopnea, and hematuria are later or less specific signs.