A nurse administers desmopressin to a client who has a diagnosis of diabetes insipidus. The nurse recognizes that which of the following laboratory findings indicate a therapeutic effect of the medication?
Blood glucose 80 mg/dL
Serum sodium 146 mEq/L
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 15 mg/dL
Urine specific gravity 1.015
The Correct Answer is D
A. Blood glucose levels are not directly affected by desmopressin, as it is used to treat diabetes insipidus, which is related to antidiuretic hormone (ADH) deficiency, not glucose metabolism.
B. A serum sodium level of 146 mEq/L is slightly elevated and may indicate dehydration, which is common in diabetes insipidus if not well controlled. Desmopressin should help lower the sodium level by reducing the excessive urine output.
C. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is typically used to assess kidney function and hydration status, but it is not a primary indicator of the effectiveness of desmopressin in treating diabetes insipidus.
D. A urine specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range and indicates more concentrated urine, which is a therapeutic effect of desmopressin. The medication helps the kidneys retain water, leading to more concentrated urine, and improving symptoms of diabetes insipidus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hirsutism, or excessive hair growth, is more commonly associated with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or Cushing’s syndrome, rather than Addison’s disease.
B. Hyperpigmentation is a characteristic sign of Addison’s disease. Due to insufficient cortisol production in the adrenal glands, there is an increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which leads to darkening of the skin, particularly in areas exposed to friction like elbows, knees, and the face.
C. Purple striations are a common finding in Cushing’s syndrome, which results from excessive cortisol production. They are not typically seen in Addison's disease.
D. Intention tremors are more commonly associated with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, rather than Addison’s disease, which primarily affects the adrenal glands.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Placing the patient in a lateral recovery position is the best immediate action. This position helps facilitate drainage of secretions, especially after a laryngectomy, which can reduce the risk of aspiration and airway obstruction. The blood-tinged mucus may be due to recent surgery and should be monitored for changes.
B. The activation of the rapid-response team may be necessary if the patient’s condition worsens or becomes critical, but there is no indication of an acute life-threatening event based on the blood-tinged mucus alone.
C. Monitoring the oxygen saturation and respiratory rate is important, but it is a secondary concern compared to providing a position that promotes drainage and prevents aspiration.
D. Increasing humidification of the oxygen may help keep the airway moist, but the immediate priority should be ensuring proper positioning to allow secretion drainage and prevent aspiration.
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