A nurse is caring for a male client who is postoperative.
Which of the following client findings should the nurse identify as being consistent with dumping syndrome? Select all that apply.
Vital signs
Prescribed diet
Skin appearance
Blood glucose level
WBC count
Correct Answer : A,C,D
A. Vital signs. The client has a significantly elevated heart rate (110/min) and elevated blood pressure (178/82 mm Hg), both of which can be associated with autonomic responses in dumping syndrome. The dizziness and desire to lie down after eating are also classic symptoms. These signs reflect the body’s reaction to rapid gastric emptying and fluid shifts.
B. Prescribed diet. While a bland, soft diet is generally safe post-gastrectomy, it may not prevent dumping syndrome unless it includes specific modifications like low carbohydrate intake and small, frequent meals. However, this option alone does not directly indicate dumping syndrome.
C. Skin appearance. The client is noted to be diaphoretic and pale, which are common symptoms of dumping syndrome due to the vasomotor response and hypoglycemia that can follow rapid gastric emptying.
D. Blood glucose level. The client's fasting blood glucose dropped to 65 mg/dL, which is below the normal range. Hypoglycemia is a hallmark of late dumping syndrome, resulting from excessive insulin release after rapid carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine.
E. WBC count. The WBC count is within normal range (9,000/mm³) and does not indicate dumping syndrome or an infectious process. It is not relevant in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will hang a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours." This is the correct action. TPN solutions are high in glucose and lipids, which create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Changing the bag and tubing every 24 hours reduces the risk of infection and sepsis, especially in clients with central lines.
B. "I will obtain the client's weight every other day." Weight should be monitored daily in clients receiving TPN to assess for fluid status, nutritional progress, and potential complications like fluid overload or retention.
C. "I will monitor the client's blood glucose level every 8 hours." Clients receiving TPN require more frequent glucose monitoring, typically every 4 to 6 hours, especially when therapy is initiated, due to the high dextrose content that can cause hyperglycemia.
D. “I will increase the rate of the TPN infusion to ensure the correct amount is given." TPN infusion rates should never be adjusted independently by a nurse. Changes must be made only with a provider’s order, as improper rate adjustments can lead to electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, or fluid overload.
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
This client has multiple risk factors for pancreatitis, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and a history of cardiovascular disease. Although the vital signs are relatively stable, the presence of risk factors and a likely clinical presentation (e.g., abdominal symptoms assumed by context) are consistent with pancreatitis. In acute pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed and digestive enzymes may attack pancreatic tissue.
NPO status is essential to rest the gastrointestinal tract and reduce pancreatic stimulation. Opioids are typically required due to the severity of abdominal pain. Elevated glucose can result from impaired insulin production due to pancreatic inflammation. Jaundice may occur if the bile duct is obstructed due to pancreatic swelling or inflammation.
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