A client with severe head trauma sustained in a car accident is admitted to the intensive care unit. Thirty-six hours later, the client’s urine output suddenly rises above 200 ml/hour, leading the nurse to suspect diabetes insipidus. Which laboratory findings support the nurse’s suspicion of arginine vasopressin deficiency?

Reasoning:

Choice A reason: Feverfew, an herbal supplement, is sometimes used for migraines but has no proven role in aneurysm management. It may affect platelet function, increasing bleeding risk if an aneurysm ruptures, making it an inappropriate and potentially harmful recommendation for this client’s condition.

Choice B reason: Opioid analgesics are not routinely recommended for aneurysm management unless severe pain from rupture occurs. Prophylactic use is inappropriate, as it does not prevent aneurysm complications and may mask symptoms, delaying intervention. Lifestyle measures like avoiding strain are more relevant for prevention.

Choice C reason: Avoiding heavy lifting is critical for clients with an aneurysm, as increased intra-abdominal or thoracic pressure from lifting can elevate blood pressure, risking aneurysm rupture. This lifestyle modification reduces mechanical stress on the aneurysm wall, promoting safety and preventing catastrophic bleeding events.

Choice D reason: Including peanut butter, bread, or tart foods in the diet is unrelated to aneurysm management. Dietary choices do not directly affect aneurysm stability or rupture risk. Blood pressure control and avoiding strain, like heavy lifting, are more critical to prevent aneurysm complications.

Reasoning:

Choice A reason: Limiting bed rest to 4 weeks to prevent contractures and atrophy is not the primary principle. While prolonged immobility causes these issues, early mobilization post-stroke improves recovery and prevents complications like thromboembolism, making immediate mobilization the key focus rather than a time limit.

Choice B reason: Mobilizing as soon as physically able is critical post-ischemic stroke to enhance recovery. Early mobilization improves circulation, prevents thromboembolism, maintains muscle strength, and promotes neuroplasticity, reducing disability. This principle counters the family’s insistence on bed rest, which increases complication risks and hinders recovery.

Choice C reason: Waiting for the client to express a desire to mobilize delays recovery. Stroke patients may lack initiative due to neurological deficits or depression. Early mobilization, guided by physical ability, prevents complications like deep vein thrombosis and supports rehabilitation, making patient desire a poor criterion.

Choice D reason: Lack of mobility does not directly increase stroke recurrence risk, which is more tied to vascular risk factors like hypertension or diabetes. However, immobility increases complications like thromboembolism, which could indirectly contribute to stroke. Early mobilization is the priority to enhance overall recovery.