What is the initial action a nurse should take when caring for a client experiencing hypovolemic shock?

The initial action when caring for a client experiencing hypovolemic shock is to start intravenous fluid replacement. Hypovolemic shock results from a significant loss of blood volume, which leads to inadequate perfusion of tissues and organs. Administering intravenous fluids rapidly helps to restore blood volume, stabilize blood pressure, and improve circulation to vital organs.

While oxygen therapy may be necessary to ensure adequate tissue oxygenation in a shock situation, fluid resuscitation is the priority in managing hypovolemic shock because it directly addresses the underlying cause—insufficient blood volume. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter could provide valuable information about kidney function and fluid status, but it is not the immediate priority in treating the shock. Requesting a blood transfusion may be necessary if there is significant blood loss, but it typically occurs after initial fluid resuscitation has begun.