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","B"]
Explanation
The correct answer is a. Inspect skin for redness and b. Use a residual limb shrinker.
Choice A rationale:
Inspecting the skin for redness is crucial to identify any signs of infection or pressure sores early. Redness can indicate irritation or the beginning of a pressure ulcer, which needs to be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.
Choice B rationale:
Using a residual limb shrinker helps to reduce swelling and shape the residual limb for prosthetic fitting. It also helps in managing pain and promoting healing by providing consistent compression.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding range of motion exercises is incorrect. Range of motion exercises are essential to maintain joint flexibility and prevent contractures, which can hinder the use of a prosthetic limb.
Choice D rationale:
Applying alcohol to the residual limb after bathing is not recommended. Alcohol can dry out the skin and cause irritation, which can lead to skin breakdown and infection. Instead, the residual limb should be kept clean and moisturized with appropriate skin care products.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct- Zidovudine is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV infection.
One of the potential side effects of zidovudine is hematological toxicity, including anemia (low red blood cell count) and neutropenia (low white blood cell count). The appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin could be indicative of petechiae, which are small hemorrhages caused by the leakage of blood into the skin. Petechiae can occur due to low platelet counts, a
component of the complete blood count (CBC). Monitoring the complete blood count is important for clients receiving zidovudine to identify any potential adverse effects on blood cell counts. Anemia and neutropenia can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. Therefore, any changes in blood cell counts, including the presence of petechiae, should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
B) Incorrect- This is used to assess allergic reactions and is not specifically related to the appearance of petechiae.
C) Incorrect- A skin biopsy is typically performed to diagnose skin conditions or diseases and is not the primary assessment to evaluate the cause of petechiae.
D) Incorrect- Electromyography is a diagnostic test used to assess muscle and nerve function and is not relevant to the appearance of petechiae associated with zidovudine use.
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