A nurse working on a medical-surgical unit is notified about a mass casualty event that recently took place in the community.
Which of the following assignments should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A rationale:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is not typically associated with hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is characterized by low levels of sodium in the blood, which can lead to symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and muscle cramps. Hypertension is more commonly associated with conditions like hypertension itself or conditions that cause fluid retention.

Choice B rationale:

Constipation is not a typical finding in hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is more likely to cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Constipation is not a direct consequence of low sodium levels in the blood.

Choice C rationale:

Muscle cramps are a common manifestation of hyponatremia. Low sodium levels can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, affecting muscle function and leading to muscle cramps and weakness. Monitoring for muscle cramps is important in clients with hyponatremia.

Choice D rationale:

Blurred vision is not a classic symptom of hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is more likely to cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, headache, and in severe cases, seizures. Blurred vision is typically associated with other eye or visual disorders and not directly related to low sodium levels in the blood.

Choice A rationale:

Attending a support group to seek help and guidance for handling difficulties indicates the client's acceptance of having a new ileostomy. It demonstrates a proactive approach to coping with the challenges associated with living with an ileostomy.

Choice B rationale:

Having a partner empty the bag for the client to avoid looking at it may indicate avoidance or denial rather than acceptance. While support from a partner is essential, it's also important for the client to actively participate in self-care and adaptation.

Choice C rationale:

Looking forward to having normal bowel movements again may indicate a lack of acceptance or unrealistic expectations since having an ileostomy means a change in bowel function. The client should be educated about the permanence of the ileostomy.

Choice D rationale:

Wishing for a return to the pre-ileostomy sexual relationship may indicate difficulty accepting the changes in body image and function that come with an ileostomy. It may also suggest unrealistic expectations. The client should be encouraged to seek support and counseling for body image issues and sexual concerns.