After a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the client was started on epoetin. Which finding indicates that the medication has been effective?

Choice A reason: Immediate return to hemodialysis is not typically the first line of treatment for these symptoms. Hemodialysis is a renal replacement therapy used when the kidneys are not functioning adequately. While it may be necessary in some cases, the symptoms described suggest an infection rather than complete kidney failure.

Choice B reason: Immediate removal of the transplanted kidney is a drastic measure and is not the first step in managing these symptoms. This action would be considered only if there is clear evidence of irreversible graft failure or severe complications that cannot be managed with other treatments.

Choice C reason: Antibiotic therapy is

The correct answer. The symptoms of oliguria (low urine output), elevated temperature, increased blood pressure, and signs of fluid retention suggest an infection, which is a common complication after kidney transplantation due to the immunosuppressive medications that lower the immune system's ability to fight infections. Treating the infection with antibiotics is crucial to prevent further complications and preserve the function of the transplanted kidney.

Choice D reason: Increased doses of immunosuppressive drugs are not appropriate in this situation. While immunosuppressive drugs are essential to prevent organ rejection, increasing their dosage in the presence of an infection could further compromise the immune system and exacerbate the infection. The priority is to address the infection first.

Choice A reason: Hypotension and a decreased level of consciousness can occur in spinal shock due to the disruption of the sympathetic nervous system, but these are not the hallmark features. They are more secondary effects rather than the primary presentation.

Choice B reason: Stridor, garbled speech, or inability to clear the airway are not typical findings in spinal shock. These symptoms are more indicative of airway obstruction or respiratory distress, which are not directly related to spinal shock.

Choice C reason: Bradycardia and decreased urinary output can occur in spinal shock due to the loss of sympathetic tone, leading to unopposed parasympathetic activity. While these are relevant symptoms, they do not encompass the full scope of spinal shock.

Choice D reason: The primary findings in spinal shock are the temporary loss of motor, sensory, reflex, and autonomic function below the level of the spinal injury. This includes flaccid paralysis, loss of reflexes, and autonomic dysfunction, such as hypotension and bradycardia. These symptoms are the most defining characteristics of spinal shock.