A nurse is educating a group of nursing students about brain herniation.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse include as a potential treatment for brain herniation?

Choice A rationale

Lifting a patient under the shoulders by two nurses can be strenuous and may not provide adequate support for a patient who can only partially assist.

Choice B rationale

While this method may work for some patients, it relies heavily on the patient’s strength and ability to push with their feet. If the patient is weak or unable to exert enough force, this method could be unsafe.

Choice C rationale

Using a device to reduce friction is the most appropriate technique when shifting a patient who can only partially assist. Devices such as slide sheets or transfer boards can help move the patient smoothly and with less physical strain on the healthcare provider.

Choice D rationale

Lifting the patient’s legs while the patient uses a trapeze bar requires significant upper body strength from the patient and may not be feasible for all patients.

Choice A rationale

Phosphate levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium- sparing diuretic and does not typically affect phosphate levels.

Choice B rationale

Decreased potassium level is not typically expected in a patient taking spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it can actually lead to increased potassium levels. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, other factors may influence potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

Chloride levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone primarily affects the balance of potassium and sodium in the body.

Choice D rationale

Sodium levels could potentially be decreased in a patient taking spironolactone, as it can cause the body to lose sodium. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, sodium levels are often carefully managed.