An older adult nursing home resident who has always been alert and oriented is now showing signs of dehydration and has become confused. Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely involved?
Hypercalcemia
Hypomagnesemia
Hyponatremia
Hypernatremia
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Adding pecans will be a change I can readily make.": Pecans are not a significant source of potassium compared to other foods.
B. "I will eat cantaloupe for my morning snack.": Cantaloupe is a potassium-rich food and an excellent choice to increase dietary potassium.
C. "I will miss eating yogurt every day for breakfast.": Yogurt is a good potassium source, so discontinuing it would not help.
D. "I can plan to eat rice instead of baked potatoes.": Rice is low in potassium, whereas baked potatoes are a potassium-rich option.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Bradycardia: Vomiting and diarrhea usually lead to tachycardia (increased heart rate) as the body compensates for hypovolemia, not bradycardia (slow heart rate).
B. Pale Yellow Urine: Dehydration often causes the urine to become concentrated and dark yellow, not pale yellow.
C. Poor Skin Turgor: Poor skin turgor is a classic sign of dehydration caused by fluid loss.
D. Hypotension: Loss of fluid volume can result in hypotension due to reduced blood circulation.
E. Flat Neck Veins: Dehydration causes reduced venous return, leading to flat neck veins, particularly when lying down.
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