If hypotension occurs after administering Dilaudid, what immediate action should be taken?

Administering 1L of normal saline is an appropriate immediate action when hypotension occurs after giving Dilaudid (hydromorphone). Dilaudid is an opioid analgesic that can lead to vasodilation and decreased blood pressure as side effects. When hypotension is observed, it is essential to restore intravascular volume to support blood pressure and ensure adequate perfusion to vital organs.

Administering normal saline helps to increase the circulating blood volume, thereby potentially elevating blood pressure. This is a common practice in managing hypotension, especially if it is due to volume depletion or a response to medication administration.

In contrast, other options may not address the underlying issue effectively. For example, administering diphenhydramine, a histamine blocker, is not a standard intervention for opioid-induced hypotension. While epinephrine can counteract severe hypotension in anaphylactic reactions, it is generally not the first line for opioid-induced hypotension. Lastly, while administering oxygen is essential for any patient experiencing respiratory distress or severe hypoxia, it does not directly treat hypotension. Therefore, initiating normal saline administration as a response to hypotension related to Dilaudid is the most appropriate and immediate action.