A 74-year-old female older adult was admitted to the ER with Shortness of breath, lethargy, and dry oral mucosa. The patient reports being thirsty, and no complaints of pain are noted. BP is 90/50, HR 122, temperature 100, and pulse ox is 94%. The patient is started on IV therapy and has been diagnosed with Dehydration. Her height is 5 Feet, 3 inches and her current weight is 98 pounds. Dark scanty urine present, NKDA or NKFA and has a history of gout, falls, and loss of appetite.
After reviewing the patient's information, identify all pertinent assessment data that is important and of immediate concern.
Select all that apply.
Weight 98Lbs
Dehydrated
Admitted to the ER
Lethargy
HR 122
Shortness of Breath
Temperature 100
Thirsty
Female
BP 90/50
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E,F,G,H,J
● Weight 98 lbs: This information helps determine the patient's baseline weight and assess for potential weight loss associated with dehydration.
● Dehydrated: The diagnosis of dehydration indicates a critical condition that requires immediate attention and intervention.
● Lethargy: Lethargy suggests a decreased level of consciousness and could indicate a severe state of dehydration or other underlying issues that need to be addressed promptly.
● HR 122: A heart rate of 122 beats per minute is elevated and may indicate compensatory mechanisms in response to dehydration or other underlying conditions. It requires further evaluation and intervention.
● Shortness of Breath: This symptom suggests respiratory distress and may be related to the patient's dehydration or underlying conditions. It requires immediate assessment and intervention.
● Temperature 100: An elevated temperature may indicate an underlying infection or inflammatory response. It requires further evaluation to determine the cause and guide appropriate treatment.
● Thirsty: The patient's report of feeling thirsty is an important symptom indicating dehydration and the need for fluid replacement.
● BP 90/50: A blood pressure of 90/50 is low and may be indicative of hypotension, which can occur in dehydration. It requires close monitoring and intervention to stabilize the patient's blood pressure.
The following items are not immediate concerns based on the given information: ● Admitted to the ER: While it is important information, it is not a current concern as the patient is already in the ER.
● Female: The patient's gender is not an immediate concern for the assessment and management of dehydration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Patient-centered care involves actively involving the patient in their care and considering their preferences, values, and goals. By discussing dietary preferences with the client, the nurse is demonstrating a patient-centered approach. This documentation indicates that the nurse took the time to engage in a conversation with the client to understand their dietary preferences,
which can help tailor the care plan to meet the client's individual needs and preferences. "Steady gait observed when ambulating" focuses on the nurse's observation and assessment but does not specifically involve the patient's preferences or goals.
"Social worker paged for consultation" indicates collaboration with another healthcare professional but does not necessarily reflect the patient's active involvement or preferences. "Nursing literature reviewed for best practice approaches" highlights evidence-based practice but does not directly involve the patient's preferences or engagement in decision-making.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Mrs. Kalen is diagnosed with gastroenteritis and dehydration, and the arterial blood gas results indicate metabolic alkalosis (elevated pH and HCO3-). This suggests that there is an excessive loss of gastric acid and chloride ions from vomiting, leading to an imbalance of electrolytes and an increase in bicarbonate levels.
To correct the imbalance and treat dehydration, the primary intervention is fluid replacement. Administration of IV 0.9 Saline Solution, also known as normal saline, is commonly used for fluid resuscitation and rehydration. This isotonic solution helps restore fluid balance and electrolyte levels in the body.
Administration of antiemetics may help control vomiting, but the primary treatment focus in this case is fluid and electrolyte replacement to correct dehydration and the associated metabolic alkalosis.
Administration of diuretics, which increase urine output, would not be appropriate in this case as the patient is already experiencing dehydration.
Electrolyte replacement may be necessary if there are specific electrolyte imbalances identified, but the primary treatment is fluid replacement with IV saline solution.
Having the patient go home and rest without addressing the underlying dehydration and metabolic alkalosis would not be appropriate as it can lead to further complications.
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