A client with diabetes insipidus (DI) has an average urinary output of 500 ml. of dilute urine every hour for the last 4 hours. Which laboratory test is most important for the nurse to monitor?
White blood cell count.
Capillary glucose.
Urine specific gravity.
Serum sodium.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: White blood cell count monitors for infection or inflammation. While important for general health, it does not address the massive fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances specifically caused by diabetes insipidus.
Choice B rationale: Capillary glucose monitors for diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus involves antidiuretic hormone deficiency, not insulin issues; therefore, glucose levels are not the priority in managing the massive dilute polyuria seen here.
Choice C rationale: Urine specific gravity will be consistently low in diabetes insipidus. While it confirms the diagnosis of dilute urine, it is less critical than monitoring the life-threatening systemic effects of dehydration.
Choice D rationale: Serum sodium is the most important lab to monitor. Massive loss of dilute urine leads to severe hemoconcentration and hypernatremia, which can cause cerebral edema, seizures, and permanent neurological damage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Following a pneumonectomy, it is important for the client to gradually resume normal activities and engage in social interactions. Encouraging family gatherings can provide emotional support, facilitate social connections, and help reduce feelings of isolation that the client may be experiencing.
While it is generally important for clients who have undergone a pneumonectomy to take precautions to reduce the risk of respiratory infections, such as avoiding crowded places and individuals with respiratory infections, completely avoiding social contact for several weeks is not necessary or realistic in most cases. It is essential to find a balance between protecting the client's health and promoting their emotional well-being and social integration.
Wearing a face mask during family events may not be necessary unless there is a specific concern about respiratory infections. The nurse can educate the client about the importance of good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with individuals who are actively ill with respiratory infections.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Keeping the child's nails trimmed short helps minimize the risk of further skin damage and infection resulting from scratching. It reduces the likelihood of breaking the skin and causing bleeding. This preventive measure can help protect the child's skin and promote healing. It is important to combine nail trimming with other appropriate interventions for managing eczema, such as moisturizing the skin, avoiding irritants, and following the healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment.
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