A nurse is assessing a client who has received treatment for hypernatremia. Which of the following findings indicates the treatment has been effective?

Choice B reason: Older adults should decrease their calorie intake as their metabolic rate and physical activity tend to decline with age. Excess calories can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. Older adults should aim for a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs without exceeding their energy requirements.

Choice A reason: Older adults should not decrease their vitamin D intake, as vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function. Older adults are at risk of vitamin D deficiency due to reduced sun exposure, decreased skin synthesis, and impaired absorption. Vitamin D deficiency can cause osteoporosis, fractures, muscle weakness, and infections. Older adults should consume adequate amounts of vitamin D from fortified foods, supplements, or sun exposure.

Choice C reason: Older adults should not decrease their protein intake, as protein is important for maintaining muscle mass, strength, and function. Older adults are prone to sarcopenia, which is the loss of muscle mass and quality due to aging. Sarcopenia can impair mobility, balance, and independence. Older adults should consume enough protein from animal or plant sources to prevent or delay sarcopenia.

Choice D reason: Older adults should not decrease their fiber intake, as fiber is beneficial for digestive health and blood glucose control. Older adults often suffer from constipation, diverticular disease, and diabetes, which can be alleviated by increasing fiber intake. Fiber can also lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers. Older adults should consume at least 25 grams of fiber per day from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

Choice A reason:A firm bilateral hand grip indicates normal muscle strength, which is a positive sign but not directly related to hypernatremia treatment efficacy.

Choice B reason: Fatigue is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Fatigue can be a symptom of hypernatremia, as well as dehydration, infection, or other conditions. The nurse should assess the client for other causes of fatigue and monitor their vital signs and fluid status.

Choice C reason:Deep tendon reflexes graded as 2+ are considered normal and suggest that neuromuscular function is intact. Since hypernatremia can cause neuromuscular excitability, normal reflexes may indicate effective treatment.

Choice D reason: Urine output 25 mL/hr is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Urine output 25 mL/hr is below the normal range of 30 to 50 mL/hr and indicates oliguria, which can be a complication of hypernatremia. Oliguria can result from dehydration, kidney damage, or reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to hypernatremia. The nurse should notify the provider and administer fluids as prescribed.