What is the priority nursing intervention for a client who develops bradycardia and hypotension after a PCI?

The priority nursing intervention for a client who develops bradycardia and hypotension after a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is to administer an intravenous (IV) fluid bolus. When a patient experiences bradycardia and hypotension, these symptoms indicate that the heart is not pumping adequately and the body may not be receiving sufficient blood flow. Administering IV fluids is crucial as it can help to restore blood volume and improve cardiac output, thus stabilizing the patient's hemodynamic status.

In cases of hypotension, it is essential to quickly address fluid status, as this can impact the perfusion of vital organs. Rapid administration of IV fluids can correct potential hypovolemia or dehydration, which may have contributed to the patient's low blood pressure. This intervention can also assist in counteracting the effects of bradycardia, as increased blood volume may support higher blood pressure, potentially improving heart rate responsiveness.

Other interventions, while important, may not address the immediate cardiovascular instability as effectively. Assessing bilateral pedal pulses, applying a sandbag to the puncture site, or elevating the head of the bed are relevant nursing actions but do not directly tackle the urgent need to stabilize the patient’s hemodynamic status in the context of br