The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome who is receiving fluid replacement therapy with normal saline at 250 mL per hour along with a continuous insulin infusion. What potential complications of this treatment will the nurse monitor the patient for? (Select All That Apply)
Ketoacidosis
Pulmonary edema
Atelectasis
Hypoglycemia
Hypokalemia
Correct Answer : B,D,E
Choice A reason: Ketoacidosis is not a typical complication of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS) treatment. HHS usually occurs without significant ketoacidosis, and the focus is on managing hyperglycemia and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Pulmonary edema is a potential complication of rapid fluid replacement therapy. The increased fluid volume can overwhelm the heart's ability to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Choice C reason: Atelectasis is not a common complication of HHS treatment. It is more related to lung collapse or infection rather than fluid or insulin therapy.
Choice D reason: Hypoglycemia is a potential complication of continuous insulin infusion. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to prevent blood sugar from dropping too low during treatment.
Choice E reason: Hypokalemia is a potential complication of insulin therapy. Insulin promotes the uptake of potassium into cells, which can reduce serum potassium levels. Monitoring and managing potassium levels is important during HHS treatment.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The patient with heart failure whose pulse oximetry is 94% on 2L oxygen is stable at the moment. While they require monitoring, they do not take immediate priority over the patient with altered consciousness.
Choice B reason: Altered level of consciousness and restlessness are critical symptoms that require immediate assessment. These could indicate a life-threatening condition such as hypoxia, electrolyte imbalance, or stroke, necessitating prompt evaluation and intervention.
Choice C reason: The patient with dyspnea on exertion who wants to be discharged against medical advice is important, but altered consciousness takes precedence due to its potential severity.
Choice D reason: The patient with an ejection fraction of 50% and 2+ bilateral lower extremity edema is stable and does not require immediate intervention compared to the patient with altered consciousness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fruity-smelling breath is a symptom of ketoacidosis, not hypoglycemia. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones due to a lack of insulin, leading to metabolic acidosis.
Choice B reason: Sweating and nervousness are common symptoms of hypoglycemia. Low blood glucose levels trigger the release of adrenaline, which causes these symptoms. Patients should check their blood glucose when experiencing these signs to prevent severe hypoglycemia.
Choice C reason: Nausea and vomiting are more associated with ketoacidosis. High blood glucose levels and the presence of ketones can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Choice D reason: Increased thirst and urination are also symptoms of hyperglycemia and ketoacidosis. These symptoms result from the body's attempt to eliminate excess glucose and ketones through urine.
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