When caring for a client receiving a 20% mannitol IV solution at the rate of 100 grams/24 hours (or 70 mg/min), which outcome data is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to collect?
Ankle circumference
Heart rate
Dietary intake
Urinary output
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Ankle circumference monitors edema, which mannitol reduces by drawing fluid from tissues. However, this is secondary to urinary output, as mannitol’s primary action is diuresis, increasing urine production to reduce intracranial or intraocular pressure, making edema measurement less critical.
Choice B reason: Heart rate is relevant for overall monitoring but not the primary outcome for mannitol, which acts as an osmotic diuretic. Cardiovascular effects are secondary, and mannitol’s efficacy is better assessed by urine output, which directly reflects its diuretic mechanism.
Choice C reason: Dietary intake is unrelated to mannitol’s therapeutic effect. Mannitol pulls fluid into the bloodstream, increasing urine output, not influenced by diet. Monitoring intake may be relevant for other conditions, but it is not critical for assessing mannitol’s diuretic action.
Choice D reason: Urinary output is the most important outcome, as mannitol, an osmotic diuretic, increases urine production by drawing fluid into the renal tubules, reducing intracranial or intraocular pressure. Adequate output (e.g., >30 mL/hour) confirms efficacy, preventing fluid overload or renal complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Stating that HIV is not cured by antiretrovirals is correct, as these drugs suppress viral replication but do not eradicate the virus. HIV integrates into host DNA, requiring lifelong therapy. This understanding is accurate, requiring no further review from the PN.
Choice B reason: Antiretrovirals reduce AIDS-related complications by suppressing viral load, preserving immune function, and preventing opportunistic infections. This statement is correct, reflecting the drugs’ role in maintaining CD4 counts and immune health, so no additional instruction is needed.
Choice C reason: Antiretrovirals can reduce viral load to undetectable levels, preventing disease progression and transmission risk. This is accurate, as effective therapy lowers plasma HIV RNA, aligning with treatment goals. The statement requires no further review, as it reflects correct understanding.
Choice D reason: Claiming antiretrovirals prevent transmission is inaccurate, as they reduce but do not eliminate transmission risk. Undetectable viral loads lower risk significantly, but transmission is still possible, especially with inconsistent adherence. This misstatement requires review to clarify transmission risks.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Polyethylene glycol, a bowel prep for colonoscopy, requires rapid drinking at specified intervals to ensure effective colon cleansing. This osmotic laxative draws water into the bowel, promoting evacuation. Consistent, rapid intake ensures complete bowel clearance, critical for clear visualization during the procedure.
Choice B reason: Diluting polyethylene glycol with fruit juice is incorrect, as it may alter the solution’s osmotic balance, reducing efficacy. The preparation must remain undiluted to draw sufficient water into the colon for cleansing, making this instruction inappropriate for achieving a clear colonoscopy.
Choice C reason: Drinking polyethylene glycol with a meal is incorrect, as food can interfere with bowel cleansing. The solution is taken on an empty stomach, typically the day before the exam, to ensure the colon is clear, making this instruction counterproductive to the prep’s purpose.
Choice D reason: Watery diarrhea is the expected outcome of polyethylene glycol, not an adverse effect requiring reporting. It indicates effective bowel cleansing for colonoscopy. Instructing to report this normal response is unnecessary and may cause confusion, as diarrhea is the goal of the preparation.
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