Which of the following clinical findings is expected when assessing an 8-month-old patient who has severe hypernatremic dehydration?
Tachycardia and decreased urine output
Bulging anterior fontanel and weight loss
Parched mucous membranes and sodium level of 140
Potassium level of 5.2 and bradycardia
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. In severe hypernatremic dehydration, an infant typically presents with tachycardia, decreased urine output, poor skin turgor, and lethargy. Hypernatremia leads to intracellular dehydration, causing compensatory cardiovascular responses such as tachycardia.
B. Bulging anterior fontanel is more suggestive of increased intracranial pressure, not routine hypernatremic dehydration. Weight loss may be present but is nonspecific.
C. A sodium level of 140 mEq/L is normal, not indicative of hypernatremia. Parched mucous membranes may occur in dehydration, but hypernatremic dehydration usually presents with sodium >150 mEq/L.
D. Potassium of 5.2 is mildly elevated but bradycardia is not typical; tachycardia is the expected cardiovascular response in hypernatremic dehydration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Mild nausea prior to exercising is generally not a contraindication to physical activity during pregnancy. The patient can adjust intensity or timing of exercise, but routine exercise is still encouraged if tolerated.
B. Calf pain could indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious condition requiring immediate medical evaluation and would warrant stopping exercise.
C. Pain in the back, hips, or pubic area may signal musculoskeletal strain or pelvic girdle dysfunction, which can be aggravated by exercise and should be evaluated.
D. Chest pain during pregnancy could indicate cardiac or pulmonary complications and is an immediate reason to discontinue exercise and seek urgent medical care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Benzodiazepines are not first-line for long-term management of GAD in adolescents, and short-term use does not eradicate symptoms; they mainly provide temporary relief.
B. Most medications prescribed for GAD, such as SSRIs and certain SNRIs, are nonaddictive and are considered safe for long-term use in adolescents when monitored appropriately.
C. SSRIs typically require several weeks (often 4–6) to show therapeutic effects and do not produce immediate results.
D. While avoiding alcohol is generally advised with medications, especially in adolescents, the most relevant point is that first-line GAD medications are nonaddictive.
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