A nurse is caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis. Which arterial blood gas result is most consistent with this condition?

Choice A reason: Increasing sodium intake raises blood pressure by promoting fluid retention, increasing vascular volume, and straining the cardiovascular system. Hypertensive clients need sodium restriction to reduce fluid overload and vascular resistance, making this recommendation harmful, as it exacerbates hypertension rather than controlling it.

Choice B reason: A diet high in saturated fats contributes to atherosclerosis, increasing vascular resistance and blood pressure. It also raises LDL cholesterol, worsening cardiovascular risk. Hypertensive clients require heart-healthy diets low in saturated fats to reduce blood pressure and protect against heart disease, making this inappropriate.

Choice C reason: The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, reduces blood pressure by providing potassium, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients lower vascular resistance and promote vasodilation, improving cardiovascular health. It is evidence-based and recommended for hypertension management, making it the best choice.

Choice D reason: Limiting potassium-rich foods is not recommended for hypertension, as potassium promotes vasodilation and reduces blood pressure by counteracting sodium’s effects. Potassium-rich foods, like fruits, are part of the DASH diet, which helps control hypertension, making this recommendation incorrect for blood pressure management.

Choice A reason: Instructing on walker movement addresses the psychomotor domain, focusing on physical skills. This does not tackle the client’s emotional disengagement or belief of being “too old.” Without addressing motivation, technical instructions may be ineffective, as the client’s psychological barrier prevents engagement, reducing the likelihood of successful learning and adoption.

Choice B reason: Describing quality-of-life benefits targets the affective domain, addressing emotions and attitudes. By emphasizing enhanced independence, safety, and mobility, the nurse can counter the client’s defeatist mindset. This approach fosters motivation, making the client more receptive to learning walker use, as it connects the intervention to personal, meaningful outcomes.

Choice C reason: Explaining walker support for lower extremities focuses on the cognitive domain, providing technical knowledge. While informative, it does not address the client’s emotional disengagement. Without motivating the client by linking the walker to personal benefits, this approach may fail to overcome their resistance, as it lacks an emotional or motivational component.

Choice D reason: Discussing the rationale for walker use targets the cognitive domain, explaining its purpose. While this may enhance understanding, it does not address the client’s emotional barrier or lack of motivation. Without engaging the client’s feelings or highlighting personal benefits, the rationale alone is unlikely to inspire willingness to learn or use the walker.