A nurse in the emergency department is assessing a young adult client who was administered a hypotonic IV fluid bolus for rehydration after collapsing at an athletic event. Which of the following findings indicates the client is experiencing water intoxication?
Hypernatremia
Weak pulses
Muscle weakness
Exaggerated reflexes
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Hypernatremia is not a sign of water intoxication, but rather the opposite condition. Hypernatremia means high sodium levels in the blood, which can occur when the body loses more water than sodium, such as in dehydration, diabetes insipidus, or excessive salt intake. Water intoxication causes hyponatremia, which means low sodium levels in the blood, due to excessive water intake or retention.
Choice B reason: Weak pulses are not a specific sign of water intoxication, but rather a general sign of poor perfusion or circulation. Weak pulses can have many causes, such as hypotension, shock, heart failure, or peripheral vascular disease. Water intoxication can cause hypotension, but it can also cause hypertension, depending on the volume status of the client.
Choice C reason: Muscle weakness is a sign of water intoxication, as it reflects the effect of low sodium levels on the neuromuscular system. Sodium is essential for nerve and muscle function, as it helps generate electrical impulses and contractions. When sodium levels drop too low, the nerves and muscles become less responsive and weaker. Other signs of water intoxication affecting the nervous system include confusion, headache, seizures, and coma.
Choice D reason: Exaggerated reflexes are not a sign of water intoxication, but rather a sign of hyperreflexia, which is a condition of overactive reflexes. Hyperreflexia can have many causes, such as spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or electrolyte imbalance. Water intoxication can cause electrolyte imbalance, but it usually leads to hyporeflexia, which is a condition of reduced or absent reflexes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: "Limit the number of fast-food meals to five each week." is not a good information to include, as it implies that fast-food meals are acceptable as long as they are not too frequent. The nurse should discourage the students from consuming fast-food meals, as they are high in fat, salt, sugar, and calories, and low in nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants. The nurse should advise the students to choose healthier options, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
Choice B reason: "You should drink a glass of milk with breakfast." is a good information to include, as it promotes the intake of calcium, which is essential for bone health and growth. Adolescents need about 1,300 mg of calcium per day, which can be obtained from milk and other dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt. The nurse should encourage the students to drink milk with breakfast, as it can also provide protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
Choice C reason: "Most of your dietary intake should come from protein." is not a good information to include, as it suggests that protein is more important than other macronutrients, such as carbohydrates and fats. The nurse should explain to the students that protein is necessary for tissue repair, muscle development, and immune function, but it should not exceed 10 to 30 percent of the total caloric intake. The nurse should recommend the students to consume a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, fats, and protein, as well as vitamins, minerals, and water.
Choice D reason: "Your total intake for the day should not exceed 1,000 calories." is not a good information to include, as it indicates that calorie restriction is the key to a healthy diet. The nurse should inform the students that calorie needs vary depending on age, gender, activity level, and growth rate, and that 1,000 calories is too low for most adolescents. The nurse should advise the students to eat enough calories to meet their energy and nutritional needs, and to avoid skipping meals or starving themselves.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Formula should not be changed to whole milk until the infant is 12 months old, as whole milk does not provide enough iron and other nutrients for the infant's growth and development. Whole milk can also cause intestinal bleeding and increase the risk of allergies in infants younger than 12 months.
Choice B reason: Formula that remains in the bottle should not be used for another feeding, as it can harbor bacteria and cause infection. Any formula that is not consumed within one hour of preparation or feeding should be discarded.
Choice C reason: If the infant turns away after taking most of the feeding, it is a sign that the infant is full and satisfied. The nurse should instruct the parents to stop the feeding and burp the infant. Forcing the infant to finish the bottle can cause overfeeding and vomiting.
Choice D reason: If the infant is gaining weight too rapidly, diluting the formula is not a safe or effective solution. Diluting the formula can cause water intoxication, electrolyte imbalance, and malnutrition in the infant. The nurse should advise the parents to consult with the infant's doctor about the appropriate amount and type of formula for the infant.
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