A nurse is assessing a client with a sodium level of 116 mEq/L (135-145 mEq/L). Which finding should the nurse expect for this client to have?
Extreme thirst
Paresthesias
Lethargy
Blood clots
The Correct Answer is C
A) Extreme thirst: While extreme thirst can be associated with electrolyte imbalances, particularly in conditions of dehydration or hypernatremia (elevated sodium levels), a sodium level of 116 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia (low sodium levels). Extreme thirst is less typical for hyponatremia.
B) Paresthesias: Paresthesias, or abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness, are more commonly associated with conditions of low calcium or potassium levels rather than sodium. In hyponatremia, neurological symptoms can occur, but they typically include lethargy or confusion rather than specific paresthesias.
C) Lethargy: Lethargy is a common symptom of severe hyponatremia. Low sodium levels can lead to cerebral edema and neurological disturbances, resulting in symptoms such as lethargy, confusion, and even seizures. This is a direct consequence of the altered osmotic balance affecting brain function.
D) Blood clots: Hyponatremia is not typically associated with an increased risk of blood clots. Blood clots are more related to conditions affecting coagulation factors, which are not directly influenced by sodium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B"]
Explanation
A) "Your daily intake of fats should be limited to no more than 35% of your daily caloric intake":
Current dietary guidelines typically recommend limiting fat intake to less than 30% of total daily calories, not 35%, for optimal heart health. This recommendation is slightly higher than what is generally advised for managing high cholesterol.
B) "You should avoid trans-fat as much as possible":
Trans fats significantly increase LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and decrease HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). Avoiding trans fats is crucial in managing high cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk, making this the most important recommendation.
C) "Your main sources of protein should be red meat":
Red meat, particularly processed red meat, is associated with higher cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. It is generally recommended to choose lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and plant-based sources, over red meat.
D) "Fats provide the highest amount of energy per gram":
While fats do provide more energy per gram than carbohydrates or proteins, this statement does not directly address the management of cholesterol levels. The focus should be on the type of fats consumed rather than their energy content.
E) "Your intake of fats should be unsaturated fats":
While consuming unsaturated fats is beneficial, avoiding trans fats specifically addresses a more immediate concern for those with high cholesterol. Option B emphasizes the importance of eliminating harmful fats.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) D5W: Dextrose 5% in water (D5W) is not used with blood transfusions because it can cause hemolysis of the red blood cells due to its hypotonic nature. It can also potentially cause clumping and clotting.
B) 0.3% NS: This is a hypotonic saline solution, which can lead to hemolysis of red blood cells when used as a diluent for blood products. It is not appropriate for use in blood transfusions.
C) Lactated Ringers: Although lactated Ringer's solution is often used for fluid resuscitation, it contains calcium, which can cause clotting in the blood product. Therefore, it is not suitable for use with blood transfusions.
D) 0.9% NS: Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) is isotonic and the only solution recommended for use with blood transfusions. It does not cause hemolysis of red blood cells, does not alter the composition of the blood product, and helps to maintain the patency of the IV line. It is the standard diluent used in blood transfusions to ensure the safe administration of blood products.
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