An adult male is experiencing increased fatigue and occasional palpitations at rest. Which laboratory data would the nurse identify as consistent with these symptoms?

Choice A reason: Reassessing vital signs in 1 hour is not an immediate action and does not address the patient’s current symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait, which indicate a potential problem that requires immediate attention. Waiting an hour to reassess may delay necessary interventions that could prevent harm.
Choice B reason: Assisting the patient into a sitting position and notifying the healthcare provider is the most appropriate action. The symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait, along with a BP of 98/60 mmHg, suggest that the patient may be experiencing orthostatic hypotension or a side effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa. Elevating the patient's position can help prevent falls, and notifying the healthcare provider ensures that the situation is assessed and managed promptly. This action addresses the immediate safety of the patient and facilitates appropriate medical intervention.
Choice C reason: Administering the next dose of Carbidopa-Levodopa early is not recommended without specific orders from the healthcare provider. It could potentially lead to overmedication and worsen the patient’s symptoms or cause adverse effects. Medication administration should always follow the prescribed schedule unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: Educating the patient about increasing his exercise is important for overall health and mobility but is not an immediate intervention for the acute symptoms of dizziness and unsteady gait. The patient’s current condition requires prompt assessment and intervention rather than education on exercise, which can be addressed later once the immediate issue is managed.

Choice A reason: Suggesting the use of adult incontinence briefs for nighttime only may help manage incontinence during the night, but it does not address the primary issue of urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder. Incontinence briefs are a passive approach and do not prevent urinary retention or the complications associated with it, such as urinary tract infections and kidney damage. Additionally, it does not empower the patient to actively manage their urinary retention.
Choice B reason: Assisting the patient to the commode every 2 hours during the day can help to some extent in managing urinary retention. However, this approach requires constant assistance and is not practical for long-term management, especially when the patient is alone or in settings where frequent assistance is not available. This method also does not ensure complete bladder emptying, which is crucial for preventing urinary tract infections and other complications.
Choice C reason: Teaching the patient how to self-catheterize is the most appropriate and effective action for managing urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder. Self-catheterization allows the patient to empty the bladder regularly and completely, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections, bladder distention, and kidney damage. It also provides the patient with a sense of control and independence in managing their condition. Self-catheterization is a standard and recommended practice for individuals with neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to multiple sclerosis.
Choice D reason: Encouraging decreased evening intake of fluid can help reduce nighttime urination, but it does not address the issue of urinary retention caused by a flaccid bladder. Decreasing fluid intake is not a comprehensive solution and does not prevent complications associated with incomplete bladder emptying. It is important to manage fluid intake appropriately, but this should be part of a broader strategy that includes effective bladder emptying techniques like self-catheterization.