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A nurse is caring for a client.

Exhibits

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.

A.

Vision

B.

Lithium level

C.

Urine output

D.

Mucous membranes

E.

Vital signs

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Alteration in body image is a concern, but it’s not the priority. The priority is addressing the client’s physiological needs first.
Choice B rationale:
Impaired tissue perfusion is the priority nursing diagnosis. Varicose veins with ulcerations and edema indicate poor blood flow, which can lead to tissue damage if not addressed.
Choice C rationale:
Impaired skin integrity is a concern due to the ulcerations, but it’s secondary to impaired tissue perfusion.
Choice D rationale:
Alteration in activity tolerance may be present due to the feeling of heaviness, but it’s not the priority.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Positive Kernig’s sign is a clinical sign of meningitis, not specifically increased ICP12.
Choice B rationale:
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, is a symptom of meningitis but does not specifically indicate increased ICP12.
Choice C rationale:
Nuchal rigidity, or neck stiffness, is another symptom of meningitis, not a specific indicator of increased ICP12.
Choice D rationale:
Restlessness can be a sign of increased ICP as it may indicate changes in mental status, a key symptom of increased ICP12.

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