A home health nurse is assessing a client receiving TPN infusion for malabsorption after extensive bowel surgery. What finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?
Low-grade fever
Fatigue
Anorexia
Hypoactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is A
A. Low-grade fever: A low-grade fever could indicate an infection or other complications related to TPN or bowel surgery, and it is crucial to report this to the healthcare provider.
B. Fatigue: While fatigue is a common symptom, it is less urgent compared to a potential infection.
C. Anorexia: Anorexia is a concern but is not as immediate as a fever.
D. Hypoactive bowel sounds: This is expected after extensive bowel surgery and may not be as urgent as signs of infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Serum potassium 5.0 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for serum potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). While potassium levels are important, they are not the primary concern with symptoms of confusion and a bounding pulse due to excessive water intake.
B. Serum osmolality 294 mmol/kg: This value is within the normal range for serum osmolality (275-295 mmol/kg). Elevated or normal osmolality would not be expected in a case of water intoxication, which dilutes serum electrolytes.
C. Serum sodium of 127 mEq/L: A serum sodium level of 127 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, a condition often caused by excessive water intake that dilutes the sodium in the bloodstream. Symptoms such as confusion, headache, and a full bounding pulse are consistent with hyponatremia, making this the expected abnormality.
D. Serum hemoglobin 15.7 grams/dL: This is within the normal range for hemoglobin (12-16 grams/dL for women and 13.8-17.2 grams/dL for men). Hemoglobin levels would not be expected to change significantly due to water intoxication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Calcium: Thiazide diuretics can increase calcium levels, but the primary concern is the potential loss of potassium.
B. Selenium: This is not directly related to thiazide diuretic therapy and does not address the primary electrolyte imbalance.
C. Potassium: This is the correct choice. Thiazide diuretics can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Encouraging potassium-rich foods helps to counteract this side effect.
D. Bicarbonate: While bicarbonate can be important for acid-base balance, it is not the primary concern with thiazide diuretics, which typically affect potassium levels.
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