The practical nurse (PN) identifies an electrolyte imbalance, an elevated blood pressure, and exhibited changes in mental status for a client with acute kidney injury (AKI). Which intervention in the plan of care should the PN implement?
Discuss a low sodium diet.
Provide only distilled water.
Monitor for dependent pitting edema.
Use a cushion when sitting.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Discuss a low sodium diet: While teaching about a low sodium diet is important in managing fluid balance and hypertension, it is not the immediate intervention needed to address the acute symptoms and risks associated with the client's current condition.
B. Provide only distilled water: Distilled water is not necessary in managing acute kidney injury. Fluid intake management should be based on specific electrolyte and fluid needs, and the focus should be on controlling volume overload rather than the type of water provided.
C. Monitor for dependent pitting edema: Monitoring for pitting edema is critical because it provides immediate information about fluid overload, which is common with acute kidney injury. Assessing for edema provides information about the extent of fluid retention and helps evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at managing fluid balance.
D. Use a cushion when sitting: Using a cushion may improve comfort but does not address the life-threatening complications of electrolyte imbalance, hypertension, and mental status changes associated with acute kidney injury. Priority should be on assessing and managing systemic symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Healthcare provider notified, client refuses to have blood glucose taken: While this option indicates that the healthcare provider was informed and that the client refused, it does not fully capture the client’s expressed reason for refusal. Complete and precise documentation includes the client’s statement in their own words.
B. Blood glucose not obtained because client no longer wants to have finger stick: This phrasing is too casual and lacks the specificity needed for legal and clinical documentation. It does not reflect the client’s exact words or demonstrate that the healthcare provider was informed about the situation.
C. Refused finger stick and states, "My finger is sore and test useless." Healthcare provider notified: This option best meets documentation standards by including the client's direct quote, ensuring accurate and objective recording of the refusal, and noting that the healthcare provider was informed. It provides a clear, detailed account suitable for medical and legal purposes.
D. Healthcare provider notified that client is uncooperative and irritable, glucose level not assessed: Describing the client as uncooperative and irritable is subjective and could be considered judgmental. Proper documentation should remain objective, focusing on the client’s stated concerns rather than labeling their behavior.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Alteration in comfort: Restlessness, shallow breathing, and clenching teeth are strong indicators of discomfort or pain, especially in a client with aphasia who cannot verbalize needs. Assessing for pain or other sources of distress is the priority to address the client’s immediate comfort and prevent further deterioration.
B. Deficit in diversional activity: While limited activity can impact emotional health, signs like restlessness and physical tension suggest an immediate physical problem rather than boredom or inactivity. Comfort issues must be addressed first before considering diversional needs.
C. Elevated blood pressure: Stroke patients are at risk for hypertension, but restlessness and shallow respirations alone do not directly indicate elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure may rise secondary to pain or distress, but comfort assessment is still the initial focus.
D. Change in blood glucose level: Blood glucose fluctuations can cause changes in mental status or energy levels, but the client’s symptoms of clenching teeth and shallow breathing more strongly point toward discomfort or pain rather than hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
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