A nurse in a community clinic is collecting data from an older adult client who has a body mass index of 17.5. When evaluating the client for dehydration, the nurse should look for which of the following indications of fluid-volume deficit?

A. “I will call for pain medication before the previous dose wears off.”

The statement "I will call for pain medication before the previous dose wears off" indicates an understanding of proactive pain management. In postoperative pain control, it is generally more effective to stay ahead of the pain by taking pain medication on a scheduled basis rather than waiting until the pain becomes severe. This approach helps to maintain a more consistent level of pain relief.

B. “I will call for pain medication as my pain becomes intolerable.”

Waiting until the pain becomes intolerable may result in suboptimal pain control. It's more effective to take pain medication before reaching a point of intolerable pain.

C. “I will wait for you to evaluate my pain before asking for more.”

Waiting for the nurse to evaluate pain before requesting more medication may result in delays in pain relief. Pain management often involves collaboration between healthcare providers and patients, and timely communication about pain levels is essential.

D. “I will ask for less medication to avoid addiction.”

This statement reflects a concern about addiction but may lead to inadequate pain relief. Pain management should prioritize effective pain control while balancing the risks and benefits of medications. The goal is to provide sufficient pain relief without compromising the client's well-being.

A. Electrolyte imbalances

Administering diluted enteral feedings is not typically done to address electrolyte imbalances. Instead, monitoring the electrolyte levels in the patient's blood and adjusting the content of the enteral formula (such as adjusting the concentration of electrolytes) would be more appropriate.

B. Diarrhea

Administering diluted enteral feedings is a strategy that may be employed to prevent or manage diarrhea. High concentrations of nutrients can overwhelm the gastrointestinal tract, leading to diarrhea. Diluting the formula helps reduce the risk of this complication.

C. Constipation

Administering diluted enteral feedings is not typically done to address constipation. Management of constipation is more commonly achieved through adjustments in fiber intake, fluid intake, and medications as needed.

D. Delayed gastric emptying

Administering diluted enteral feedings is not a standard approach for addressing delayed gastric emptying. Instead, adjustments in the rate of enteral feedings or specific interventions for delayed gastric emptying, such as medication or changes in positioning, would be considered.