What should the nurse assess first in a patient with suspected septic shock?

In patients with suspected septic shock, assessing vital signs and perfusion status is crucial as it provides immediate insights into the patient's hemodynamic stability. Septic shock is characterized by persistent hypotension and signs of inadequate tissue perfusion due to systemic infection. Monitoring vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, helps to evaluate the severity of shock and the body’s response to the infection. Additionally, assessing perfusion status through indicators such as skin temperature, capillary refill time, and urine output helps determine how well the body's organs are being supplied with blood and oxygen.

While neurological status is important to assess in the overall evaluation of a patient, it comes after establishing vital signs and the current hemodynamic state of the patient, as these can directly impact the neurological function. Similarly, a patient’s history of allergies or past medical history, while significant for tailoring treatment, are not immediate priorities in the acute setting of suspected septic shock. The primary focus during a suspected emergency such as this is to stabilize the patient's vital signs and ensure adequate perfusion.