A nurse is monitoring a client who is dehydrated. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Hematocrit 45% (37% to 52%)

Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL (0.5-1.2 mg/dL)

BUN 25 mg/dL (10-20 mg/dL)

Urine specific gravity 1.028 (1.005 to 1.030)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Hematocrit 45% (37% to 52%): This value is within the normal range for hematocrit. Dehydration may increase the hematocrit due to a relative increase in red blood cell concentration, but 45% is still within normal limits.

B. Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL (0.5-1.2 mg/dL): This value is within the normal range for creatinine, indicating normal kidney function.

C. BUN 25 mg/dL (10-20 mg/dL): An elevated BUN level is a sign of dehydration as it reflects increased protein breakdown and decreased renal perfusion. This value is above the normal range and should be reported to the provider.

D. Urine specific gravity 1.028 (1.005 to 1.030): This value is within the normal range and indicates that the kidneys are concentrating urine, which is typical in dehydration as the body tries to conserve water.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Cardiac dysrhythmias: Hypokalemia impairs cardiac muscle function, potentially leading to arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or premature ventricular contractions.

B. Hypoglycemia: Potassium does not directly cause hypoglycemia; its imbalance more commonly affects cardiac and neuromuscular function.

C. Hyperreflexia: Hypokalemia usually causes muscle weakness and diminished reflexes (hyporeflexia), not hyperreflexia.

D. Increased appetite: Hypokalemia does not typically affect appetite.

A. Hypercalcemia B. Hypomagnesemia C. Hyponatremia D. Hypernatremia

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia may cause confusion but is less likely associated with dehydration.

B. Hypomagnesemia: This can cause neuromuscular symptoms but is less commonly linked to confusion in dehydration.

C. Hyponatremia: Low sodium levels disrupt brain cell function, leading to confusion and neurological symptoms, which are common in dehydrated older adults.

D. Hypernatremia: While dehydration may cause hypernatremia, it is less likely to present with confusion in this context compared to hyponatremia.

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A nurse is monitoring a client who is dehydrated. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse report to the provider?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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