A nurse is evaluating the laboratory findings of a client who has wound dehiscence following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is experiencing fluid volume deficit?
Potassium 3.5 mEq/L
Sodium 145 mEq/L
Hematocrit 53%
HbA1c 5%
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates nerve and muscle function, acid-base balance, and fluid balance. Potassium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Sodium 145 mEq/L is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is 136 to 145 mEq/L. Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure, blood volume, and fluid balance. Sodium level can be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, kidney function, and fluid loss.
Choice C reason: Hematocrit 53% is a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is above the normal range, which is 38 to 50% for men and 34 to 46% for women. Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the total blood volume. Hematocrit level can increase due to dehydration, which causes hemoconcentration or increased blood viscosity.
Choice D reason: HbA1c 5% is not a finding that indicates fluid volume deficit because it is within the normal range, which is less than 5.7%. HbA1c is the percentage of hemoglobin that is attached to glucose. HbA1c level reflects the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. HbA1c level can be affected by various factors, such as diabetes, anemia, and medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reducing the client's sodium intake is an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can help prevent fluid retention and edema, which are complications of heart failure. Sodium intake should be limited to 2 g per day or less for clients who have heart failure.
Choice B reason: Restricting the client's protein intake is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can cause malnutrition and muscle wasting, which can worsen heart failure. Protein intake should be adequate to meet the client's nutritional needs and support cardiac function. Protein intake should be about 0.8 to 1.2 g per kg of body weight per day for clients who have heart failure.
Choice C reason: Weighing the client once per week is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can delay the detection and treatment of fluid overload, which can worsen heart failure. The client should be weighed daily at the same time and with the same scale and clothing to monitor fluid status and adjust medication dosage.
Choice D reason: Providing the client with three large meals per day is not an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take because it can increase the workload of the heart and cause dyspnea, fatigue, or chest pain, which are symptoms of heart failure. The client should be provided with small, frequent meals that are low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol to reduce cardiac stress and promote digestion.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Abdominal obesity is a risk factor for developing diabetes mellitus. Abdominal obesity, also known as central obesity or visceral fat, is the accumulation of fat around the abdomen and organs. Abdominal obesity can cause insulin resistance, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome, which are all associated with diabetes.
Choice B reason: Elevated HDL level is not a risk factor for developing diabetes mellitus. HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein, which is a type of cholesterol that carries excess cholesterol from the tissues to the liver for disposal. HDL is also known as "good" cholesterol, as it helps protect against heart disease and stroke. A high HDL level is desirable and beneficial for health.
Choice C reason: History of hypotension is not a risk factor for developing diabetes mellitus. Hypotension means low blood pressure, which is usually defined as less than 90/60 mm Hg. Hypotension can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and blurred vision. Hypotension can be caused by dehydration, blood loss, medication side effects, or other conditions.
Choice D reason: History of hyperthyroidism is not a risk factor for developing diabetes mellitus. Hyperthyroidism means overactive thyroid gland, which produces too much thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone regulates metabolism, growth, and development. Hyperthyroidism can cause symptoms such as weight loss, nervousness, palpitations, heat intolerance, and insomnia. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, or thyroiditis.
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