The nurse admits a patient with a low BP who reports severe diarrhea for several days from a Clostridium difficile infection. Which IV fluid would the nurse associate with the need to rapidly replace the patient's fluid volume?
0.45% sodium chloride
0.9% sodium chloride
5% dextrose in 0.9% sodium chloride
5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: 0.45% sodium chloride is a hypotonic solution, which is not ideal for rapidly replacing fluid volume in patients with low blood pressure due to severe diarrhea. Hypotonic solutions can cause fluid to move into cells rather than staying in the vascular space, potentially worsening hypotension.
Choice B reason: 0.9% sodium chloride, also known as normal saline, is an isotonic solution. It is the best choice for rapidly replacing fluid volume in patients with low blood pressure. Isotonic solutions stay in the vascular space and help restore circulating blood volume and blood pressure without causing fluid shifts that can lead to cellular edema or dehydration.
Choice C reason: 5% dextrose in 0.9% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution, which might not be the most appropriate for initial rapid fluid resuscitation. Hypertonic solutions can draw fluid into the vascular space from the interstitial and intracellular spaces, potentially leading to rapid changes in fluid balance and electrolyte shifts.
Choice D reason: 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride is also a hypertonic solution but with a hypotonic component (0.45% sodium chloride). This combination is not typically used for rapid fluid resuscitation because it can cause fluid shifts that are less predictable and may complicate the patient's electrolyte balance and hydration status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Teaching the patient to use guided imagery can be an effective pain management strategy, but it might not be the most immediate and reassuring intervention for a patient experiencing fear about postoperative pain. This approach is more useful as an additional technique rather than the primary intervention.
Choice B reason: Describing the type of pain expected with the patient's particular surgery can provide some insight into what to anticipate, but it does not necessarily alleviate fear or provide concrete strategies for managing pain. It might even increase anxiety by focusing on the details of the pain itself.
Choice C reason: Explaining the pain management plan, including the use of a pain rating scale, is the most effective intervention. This approach directly addresses the patient's concerns by providing them with a clear understanding of how their pain will be managed and controlled postoperatively. Knowing that there is a structured plan in place, with specific methods to assess and manage pain, helps build confidence and reduces fear. The use of a pain rating scale also empowers the patient to communicate their pain levels effectively, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.
Choice D reason: Informing the patient that pain medication will be available is helpful, but it lacks the detail and comprehensive approach of explaining the entire pain management plan. Patients may still have concerns about how their pain will be assessed and addressed specifically.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Placing the patient in restraints for safety is not typically necessary unless the patient is agitated or a danger to themselves or others. This action is not directly addressing the acute condition of a stroke.
Choice B reason: Inserting an NGT (nasogastric tube) is not an immediate priority in the acute management of a stroke. This might be considered later if the patient has swallowing difficulties and needs nutritional support, but it is not a first-line intervention.
Choice C reason: Anticipating thrombolytic therapy for ischemic stroke is appropriate, as timely administration of thrombolytics can dissolve the clot and improve blood flow to the affected brain area, potentially reducing the severity of the stroke.
Choice D reason: Establishing IV access with normal saline is crucial for administering medications and maintaining hydration. It ensures that the patient can receive necessary interventions promptly.
Choice E reason: Placing the patient in the prone position is not appropriate in the management of an acute stroke. The prone position is generally used in respiratory conditions to improve oxygenation but is not relevant to stroke management.
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