A nurse suspects a client has diabetes insipidus. What are the priority interventions? Select all that apply.
Monitor for hypernatremia.
Monitor neuro status.
Monitor for hyponatremia.
Monitor urine specific gravity.
Monitor strict I&O.
Correct Answer : A
Choice A: Monitor for hypernatremia.
Hypernatremia, or high sodium levels in the blood, is a common complication of diabetes insipidus due to excessive water loss and insufficient water intake. Monitoring for hypernatremia involves regular blood tests to check sodium levels. Symptoms of hypernatremia include extreme thirst, confusion, muscle twitching, and seizures. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent severe complications.
Choice B: Monitor neuro status.
Monitoring neurological status is essential in patients with diabetes insipidus because severe hypernatremia can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, irritability, seizures, and even coma. Regular assessments of mental status, level of consciousness, and neurological function help in early detection of complications and timely intervention.
Choice C: Monitor for hyponatremia.
While hyponatremia (low sodium levels) is less common in diabetes insipidus, it can occur if there is excessive water intake without adequate sodium replacement. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures. Monitoring sodium levels helps in maintaining a balance and preventing complications.
Choice D: Monitor urine specific gravity.
Urine specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in the urine. In diabetes insipidus, urine is typically very dilute, with a specific gravity of less than 1.005. Regular monitoring helps in assessing the effectiveness of treatment and the patient’s hydration status. It also aids in differentiating diabetes insipidus from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Choice E: Monitor strict I&O.
Strict monitoring of intake and output (I&O) is crucial in managing diabetes insipidus. This involves accurately measuring all fluids consumed and excreted to ensure proper hydration and electrolyte balance. It helps in identifying trends in fluid loss and guiding appropriate fluid replacement therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Metformin
Reason: Metformin is known to interact with contrast material, particularly iodinated contrast media, and can increase the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). This interaction can lead to a condition known as contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) or contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI). Metformin is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to its accumulation, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious complication. Therefore, it is generally recommended to withhold metformin before and after the administration of contrast media until renal function is confirmed to be normal.
Choice B: Carvedilol
Reason: Carvedilol is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It does not have a known interaction with contrast media that would increase the risk of acute kidney injury. Carvedilol primarily affects the cardiovascular system and does not significantly impact renal function or interact with contrast agents.
Choice C: Nitroglycerin
Reason: Nitroglycerin is used to treat angina and other heart conditions by dilating blood vessels. It does not interact with contrast media in a way that would increase the risk of acute kidney injury. Nitroglycerin’s primary effects are on the cardiovascular system, and it does not have nephrotoxic properties.
Choice D: Atorvastatin
Reason: Atorvastatin is a statin used to lower cholesterol levels. While it can have effects on liver enzymes and muscle tissue, it does not interact with contrast media to increase the risk of acute kidney injury. Atorvastatin is metabolized by the liver and does not significantly impact renal function.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Periodic Nystagmus
Nystagmus, which is characterized by involuntary eye movements, can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, including bacterial meningitis. However, it is not typically an immediate concern compared to other symptoms. Nystagmus indicates potential issues with the brainstem or cerebellum, but it does not directly threaten the patient’s life or indicate a rapid deterioration in condition. Therefore, while it is important to monitor, it is not the most urgent finding.
Choice B: Severe Unrelenting Headaches
Severe headaches are a common symptom of bacterial meningitis due to the inflammation of the meninges. While they are extremely painful and distressing for the patient, they are not as immediately life-threatening as a decreased level of consciousness. Headaches indicate increased intracranial pressure, which is serious, but the priority is to address symptoms that indicate a more rapid decline in neurological function.
Choice C: Photophobia During the Day
Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, is another common symptom of meningitis. It results from the irritation of the meninges and is often accompanied by headaches. While photophobia can be very uncomfortable and indicative of meningitis, it is not an immediate concern compared to a decreased level of consciousness. Photophobia does not directly indicate a life-threatening situation.
Choice D: Decreased Level of Consciousness
A decreased level of consciousness is the most immediate concern for a nurse caring for a patient with bacterial meningitis. This symptom indicates a significant and potentially rapid decline in the patient’s neurological status. It can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, brain swelling, or other severe complications. Immediate medical intervention is required to prevent further deterioration and potential fatality. Monitoring and addressing changes in consciousness are critical in managing bacterial meningitis effectively.
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