The nurse assesses that a client who is disoriented drank eight glasses of water in two hours and is continuing to drink excessive amounts of water. Because the nurse is concerned about water intoxication, which laboratory value should the nurse monitor?
White blood cell count.
Serum sodium levels.
Serum potassium levels.
Creatinine clearance.
The Correct Answer is B
A. White blood cell count is related to immune function and is not directly affected by water intoxication.
B. Serum sodium levels are the primary concern in cases of water intoxication. Excessive water intake can dilute the sodium in the blood, leading to hyponatremia, which can cause confusion, seizures, and other serious complications.
C. While serum potassium levels are important for overall electrolyte balance, they are not as immediately affected by water intoxication as sodium levels are.
D. Creatinine clearance is a measure of kidney function and does not directly relate to the immediate risks associated with water intoxication.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Removing the coffee might not be necessary if coffee is allowed on a clear liquid diet. The client may have been provided with the coffee based on dietary guidelines.
B. Determining which staff member brought the coffee does not address the immediate need to ensure dietary guidelines are followed.
C. On a clear liquid diet, coffee is typically allowed as long as it is consumed without milk or cream. Advising the client about this restriction ensures adherence to the diet and proper management of dietary restrictions.
D. Consulting with the dietician is important for confirming dietary guidelines but addressing the immediate situation with the client’s understanding of their diet is a more direct action.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Engaging the client in relaxation exercises may be helpful but should be considered after addressing potential physical causes of discomfort, such as positioning.
B. Offering to sit with the client is supportive, but the primary issue of physical discomfort should be addressed first.
C. Administering a PRN analgesic may be necessary if the discomfort persists, but repositioning the client is a less invasive intervention to try first.
D. Assisting the client to a different position is the first action the nurse should take. A change in position can often alleviate discomfort for bedfast clients and is a simple, non-invasive intervention.
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