Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

In a patient suffering from anemia due to acute blood loss, what findings would the nurse expect?

1. Sudden onset of symptoms, hypotension, and tachycardia

2. Exertional dyspnea, poor nutrition, and hypotension

3. Sudden onset of symptoms, glossitis, and tachycardia

4. Fatigue, neuropathy, and tachycardia

The correct answer is: Sudden onset of symptoms, hypotension, and tachycardia

The correct response highlights the physiological responses associated with acute blood loss and anemia. When a patient experiences acute blood loss, their body attempts to compensate for the decreased blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity. This compensation often manifests as sudden onset of symptoms such as weakness or dizziness, which can occur rapidly due to the significant drop in blood volume. Additionally, hypotension (low blood pressure) is expected as the body struggles to maintain adequate perfusion to vital organs. Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is another common response as the heart beats faster to circulate the available blood and oxygen more effectively. This combination of findings—sudden onset of symptoms, hypotension, and tachycardia—reflects the body's immediate reaction to manage the consequences of acute blood loss. The other choices involve symptoms and findings that might be indicative of other underlying conditions or chronic issues rather than the acute response seen with significant blood loss.