A nurse is caring for a client who has hypernatremia and requires IV fluid therapy. Which solution should the nurse prepare to infuse for this client?

A) Speech Therapist: A speech therapist is the appropriate professional for assessing and managing dysphagia, especially in clients who have experienced a stroke. They specialize in evaluating swallowing function, determining the safest consistencies of food and liquids, and providing strategies or exercises to improve swallowing ability. They play a critical role in deciding the safest method of feeding, whether it involves modified diets or alternative feeding methods.

B) Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on assessing and managing respiratory conditions. While they may become involved if there are concerns about aspiration leading to respiratory complications, they do not directly manage dysphagia or feeding issues.

C) Physical Therapist: Physical therapists work primarily on improving gross motor skills, mobility, and physical function. They do not specialize in swallowing disorders or feeding methods, so they are not the primary professionals to consult for issues related to dysphagia.

D) Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists can assist clients with fine motor skills and daily living activities, which may include feeding. However, they do not specialize in assessing or treating swallowing disorders. Their role would be more focused on helping clients with the practical aspects of self-feeding once safe swallowing methods are established by a speech therapist.

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.