A nurse is caring for a client.
The nurse is collecting data from the client 12 hr later.
How should the nurse interpret the following findings?
For each potential finding, click to specify whether the finding is an indication of potential improvement or an indication of potential worsening condition.
Vision
Lithium level
Urine output
Mucous membranes
Vital signs
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}
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Vision (Blurred)
- Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
- Rationale: Blurred vision can be a sign of lithium toxicity. Despite the lithium level improving, this symptom indicates that neurotoxicity may still be present.
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Lithium Level (1.2 mEq/L)
- Interpretation: Potential improvement
- Rationale: The lithium level has decreased from 1.8 mEq/L (toxic) to 1.2 mEq/L, which is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L). This indicates that treatment to lower lithium toxicity is effective.
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Urine Output (40 mL/hr)
- Interpretation: Potential improvement
- Rationale: A urine output of 40 mL/hr is within the acceptable range (normal is greater than 30 mL/hr), suggesting that kidney function is adequate and not compromised by lithium toxicity.
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Mucous Membranes (Pale, Dry)
- Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
- Rationale: Pale, dry mucous membranes suggest dehydration, which can increase the risk of lithium toxicity and negatively affect overall health.
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Vital Signs (BP 88/50 mm Hg, Pulse 96/min)
- Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
- Rationale: The drop in blood pressure from 130/84 mm Hg to 88/50 mm Hg indicates hypotension. This could be related to dehydration or lithium toxicity, and it requires follow-up as the condition is deteriorating.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Inspecting the mouth for signs of inhalation injuries is the priority action. Inhalation injuries can lead to airway obstruction and respiratory failure, which are life-threatening conditions.
Choice B rationale:
Administering intravenous pain medication is important, but it is not the priority. Pain management is necessary but secondary to life-threatening conditions.
Choice C rationale:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is done to monitor renal function and fluid balance, but it is not the priority action in this case.
Choice D rationale:
Drawing blood for a complete blood cell (CBC) count is done to assess the client’s overall health status, but it is not the priority action.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An HbA1c value of 8.5% is above the recommended range for good glucose control.
Choice B rationale:
An HbA1c value of 6.3% is within the target range for people with diabetes, indicating good glucose control.
Choice C rationale:
An HbA1c value of 10% is significantly above the recommended range, indicating poor glucose control.
Choice D rationale:
An HbA1c value of 7.8% is above the recommended range for good glucose control.
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