A male patient admitted with a gastrointestinal bleed and a hematocrit level of 40% receives fluid resuscitation.In a few hours,the hematocrit level drops to 32%.How should the nurse evaluate this finding?
A)It is very likely that this patient has underlying renal disease.
B)There must be an undiagnosed second site of bleeding.
C)The patient is experiencing hemodilution caused by fluid resuscitation.
D)Efforts to stop the bleeding have not been successful.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The drop in hematocrit level suggests that the patient is experiencing hemodilution caused by fluid resuscitation. As fluid is given, it becomes diluted and thus, hemodilution or a lower hematocrit is observed. It is important for the nurse to continue monitoring the patient's hematocrit levels to ensure they are stable and not dropping too quickly.

A Male Patient Admitted with a Gastrointestinal Bleed and a Hematocrit