The nurse notes that a diuretic is listed on the client's medication administration record (MAR). It is most important for the nurse to report to the physician a serum:

Choice A rationale: Hypernatremia involves elevated sodium levels, so encouraging potassium-rich foods is not directly related to addressing hypernatremia.

Choice B rationale: Restricting sodium in the diet is appropriate to help manage and reduce hypernatremia. This can prevent further complications of hypernatremia, such as dehydration, confusion, seizures, and coma.

Choice C rationale: This is not an appropriate intervention for hypernatremia, as water intake can help dilute the sodium levels and restore the fluid balance in the body.

Decreasing water intake can worsen the hypernatremia and cause dehydration. Choice D rationale: This is an appropriate intervention for hypernatremia, as high sodium levels can affect the fluid balance and blood pressure in the body. Monitoring

vital signs can help detect any changes or abnormalities that may indicate worsening of the condition or need for further treatment.

Choice E rationale: Monitoring intake and output helps assess fluid balance and response to interventions for hypernatremia.

Choice A rationale: Applying an ice pack after a topical agent is not primarily for decreasing discomfort but rather to achieve a specific therapeutic effect.

Choice B rationale: Applying an ice pack can slow the absorption of the topical drug, allowing for prolonged local action.

Choice C rationale: Enhancing drug excretion is not typically achieved by applying an ice pack.

Choice D rationale: Maximizing drug distribution is not the primary purpose of applying an ice pack after a topical agent.