In the event of diaphoresis and dizziness after administering nitroprusside for a hypertensive crisis, what should the nurse do?

In situations involving the administration of nitroprusside for a hypertensive crisis, experiencing symptoms like diaphoresis and dizziness suggests that the patient's blood pressure may be dropping too rapidly or excessively. Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator that can lead to a sudden decrease in systemic vascular resistance and consequently lower blood pressure.

Slowing the rate of the infusion is the most appropriate action in this scenario because it can help stabilize the patient's blood pressure and alleviate the symptoms being experienced. By reducing the infusion rate, the nurse can help to prevent further hypotension, thus providing a safer hemodynamic state for the patient. This intervention is critical, as it directly addresses the adverse effects and ensures that blood pressure is managed more cautiously.

In contrast, obtaining an order for naloxone is not indicated in this context, as naloxone is an opioid antagonist and does not directly relate to the effects or complications associated with nitroprusside administration. Asking the prescriber to reduce the dose may be appropriate in some contexts but is a less immediate response compared to directly slowing the infusion. Continuing to give nitroprusside at the ordered rate could exacerbate the patient's symptoms, putting them at risk for more serious complications. Thus, slowing the