A client with pancreatitis is receiving 0.9% normal saline, and the prescribed IV infusion rate was increased from 100 mL/hour to 150 mL/hour. Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the prescription has a therapeutic outcome?
Reference Range:
Blood glucose (70 to 110 mg/dL (less than 6.1 mmol/L)] Amylase [60 to 120 units/dL (30 to 220 units/L)]
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) [10 to 20 mg/dL (3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L)]
Hematocrit (HCT) [42% to 52% (0.42 to 0.52 volume fraction)]
An increase in the hematocrit (HCT) from 42% (0.42 volume fraction) to 52% (0.52 volume fraction).
An increase in the blood glucose level from 130 mg/dl. (7.22 mmol/L).
A decrease in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) from 36 mg/dL (12.9 mmol/L) to 23 mg/dL (8.21 mmol/L).
A decrease in serum amylase from 24 units/dl (240 units) to 12 units/dl. (120 units/L);
The Correct Answer is C
A. This would indicate fluid volume deficit, not improvement. Increasing IV fluids should lead to a decrease in hematocrit, not an increase.
B. This is not a desired outcome for a patient with pancreatitis, as hyperglycemia is a common complication. The focus should be on maintaining stable blood glucose levels.
C. BUN is a marker of kidney function and hydration status. A decrease in BUN indicates improved renal perfusion, which is a therapeutic outcome of increasing IV fluids.
D. While a decrease in amylase is generally a good sign for pancreatitis, it is not a direct result of increasing IV fluids. Amylase levels decrease as the pancreatitis improves.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Placing protective padding between the client and bed rails is a safety measure to prevent injury during a seizure. This action helps protect the client from head or body trauma if they hit the bed rails or any surrounding surfaces during the seizure.
B. Providing privacy is important for maintaining the client’s dignity during a seizure, but it is not the most immediate concern. The primary focus during a seizure should be on ensuring the client’s safety and monitoring the event. Privacy can be considered once the immediate safety and medical needs are addressed.
C. Observing the client's behavior during the seizure is essential for documentation and subsequent medical evaluation. It helps in identifying the type, duration, and characteristics of the seizure, which is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. However, observation alone does not address immediate safety needs or interventions required during the seizure.
D. Recording the client's level of consciousness after the seizure is important for assessing the postictal state and the extent of recovery. This information is valuable for understanding the impact of the seizure and guiding further medical care. However, during the seizure, immediate actions should focus on ensuring safety and managing the seizure itself.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While weight monitoring is important for heart failure management, it's not the priority in this situation. The low potassium level is a more immediate concern.
B. The serum potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is significantly below the normal range and indicates hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias, especially in patients taking cardiac glycosides. This is a critical finding that requires immediate attention from the healthcare provider.
C. Dietary intake can contribute to potassium levels, but it's not the most urgent action at this time.
D. Assessing for edema is important for monitoring heart failure status, but it's not the priority when there's a critical electrolyte imbalance.
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