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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increased glucose levels are not a positive outcome of the client's interventions, but rather a sign of impaired glucose metabolism and insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The Mediterranean diet can help lower glucose levels by providing complex carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats, which can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
Choice B reason: Increased HDL levels are a positive outcome of the client's interventions, as HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein, which is the "good" cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries and protect against atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. The Mediterranean diet can help increase HDL levels by providing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fish, which can boost HDL production and function.
Choice C reason: Increased LDL levels are not a positive outcome of the client's interventions, but rather a sign of increased cholesterol deposition and inflammation in the arteries, which can lead to plaque formation and cardiovascular disease. LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein, which is the "bad" cholesterol that carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. The Mediterranean diet can help lower LDL levels by providing antioxidants, fiber, and plant sterols, which can reduce LDL synthesis and oxidation.
Choice D reason: Increased triglyceride levels are not a positive outcome of the client's interventions, but rather a sign of increased fat storage and metabolic syndrome, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in the blood and provides energy to the cells. The Mediterranean diet can help lower triglyceride levels by providing omega-3 fatty acids, which can modulate triglyceride synthesis and breakdown.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice D reason:A metallic taste in the mouth is not a recognized symptom of hyperglycemia. It may occur in other conditions, such as certain medication side effects, infections, or metabolic disorders, but it is not specific to diabetes or high blood glucose levels. Including this as a sign of hyperglycemia could lead to confusion or misinterpretation of symptoms.
Choice A reason: Anxiety is not a specific symptom of hyperglycemia, although it can be associated with stress or other psychological factors that can affect blood sugar levels. Anxiety can also be a symptom of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which requires immediate treatment.
Choice B reason: Hyperventilation, characterized by deep and rapid breathing, is a critical manifestation of severe hyperglycemia, particularly in cases ofdiabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). When blood glucose levels are extremely high, the body may produce ketones, leading to metabolic acidosis. To compensate, the client may developKussmaul respirations, a type of hyperventilation aimed at expelling excess carbon dioxide. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention. Teaching the client to recognize hyperventilation as a sign of severe hyperglycemia is essential for timely treatment and prevention of complications.
Choice C reason: Cool skin is not a symptom of hyperglycemia, but rather a sign of poor circulation, which can be a complication of diabetes. Diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nerves that supply blood and oxygen to the skin, especially in the feet and legs. This can lead to skin problems, infections, and ulcers.
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