A nurse is caring for a client who has dehydration due to diarrhea. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
BUN 18 mg/dL
Serum creatinine 1.0 mg/dL
Urine output 12 mL/hr
Urine specific gravity 1.020
The Correct Answer is C
A. BUN 18 mg/dL is incorrect. A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level of 18 mg/dL is within the normal range (typically 7–20 mg/dL) and does not indicate immediate concern in this context. An elevated BUN could indicate dehydration, but this level is not significantly elevated.
B. Serum creatinine 1.0 mg/dL is incorrect. Serum creatinine levels are also within normal limits for most adults, which is around 0.6–1.2 mg/dL, and this finding does not indicate a problem.
C. Urine output 12 mL/hr is correct. A urine output of 12 mL/hr is low and indicates oliguria, which is a concern in the context of dehydration. The normal urine output for an adult is at least 30 mL/hr. A decrease in urine output suggests that the kidneys are not receiving adequate blood flow, which could indicate severe dehydration and requires immediate attention from the provider.
D. Urine specific gravity 1.020 is incorrect. Urine specific gravity of 1.020 is within the normal range (typically 1.005–1.030) and indicates that the kidneys are concentrating urine appropriately, which is not a concerning finding in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Define the problem.": While defining the problem is important in the early stages of performance improvement, evaluating effectiveness requires looking at data or outcomes, not just the initial identification of the issue.
B. "Identify data collection methods.": Identifying data collection methods is part of the planning phase, but evaluating the effectiveness involves reviewing actual data to see if the goals of the program were achieved.
C. "Perform chart audits.": This is correct. Performing chart audits allows the nurse to assess if the desired improvements have been implemented and whether the performance outcomes are being met. Chart audits are a common method for evaluating the effectiveness of a performance improvement program.
D. "Review the facility's policy and procedure manual.": While reviewing policies is important for understanding standards of care, it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of a performance improvement program. Data from actual practice, such as chart audits, would be more relevant for evaluation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The medication (erythromycin) is clearly identified in the prescription, so no clarification is needed regarding the drug name itself. B. The dosage (500 mg) is specified in the order, which is a standard dose for this medication, so it does not require clarification. C. The time or frequency is provided as “four times per day.” While specific facility times may need to be assigned, the frequency of administration is clearly established in the order. D. The route is entirely missing from the prescription. Erythromycin can be administered via several different routes, such as orally or intravenously, and the nurse cannot assume the intended method. This is a critical omission that must be clarified for safe transcription.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.