A nurse is reviewing the medical records of a client who has heart failure. The nurse should identify which of the following laboratory results as an indication that the client has fluid volume excess.
Urine specific gravity 1.015
Hematocrit 42%
Urine pH 6.5
BUN 5 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
A. A urine specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range (1.005–1.030). While fluid volume excess may lead to a lower specific gravity due to urine dilution, this value does not indicate fluid overload and is considered normal.
B. A hematocrit level of 42% is within the normal range for adults (men: 38–50%, women: 35–45%). Hematocrit levels tend to decrease in fluid volume excess due to hemodilution, but this value does not suggest fluid overload.
C. A urine pH of 6.5 is within the normal range (4.5–8.0). Urine pH reflects the acid-base balance rather than fluid status and is not a reliable indicator of fluid volume excess.
D. A BUN level of 5 mg/dL is below the normal range (10–20 mg/dL). In fluid volume excess, the dilution of blood plasma can lead to decreased BUN levels. This low BUN value, in conjunction with clinical symptoms, supports the diagnosis of fluid volume excess.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Obscure the client's name with a marker prior to disposal: While obscuring the client's name is better than not doing anything, it does not fully protect their confidential information. The paper could still be read by someone with access to it.
B. Place the paper in a trash can at the nurses' station: This action does not ensure the proper disposal of confidential information. It could be accessible to unauthorized individuals and breach the client's privacy.
C. Shred the paper in a secure container: Correct. Shredding confidential information is the best way to ensure that it cannot be accessed or read by unauthorized individuals.
D. Secure the paper in the nurse's personal locker: While securing the paper in a personal locker is better than leaving it exposed, it is not the most secure method of disposal for confidential
information.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A: While explaining the negative consequences of refusal is important, it may not change the client's decision, and respect for the client's autonomy must be upheld.
B: Discussing the treatment with the client's partner without the client's consent may breach patient confidentiality and privacy.
C: Correct. The nurse should document the client's refusal of the medical treatment in the client's medical record. This documentation is essential for legal and ethical purposes and to ensure that the refusal is adequately communicated to the healthcare team.
D: Trying to convince the client to undergo the treatment is not appropriate and may violate the principle of informed consent. The client has the right to refuse treatment after being adequately informed of the risks and benefits.
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