A nurse is assessing a client who has received treatment for hypernatremia. Which of the following findings indicates the treatment has been effective?

Choice A reason: Changing the feeding to a continuous infusion may not improve the constipation, as it does not address the fluid deficit or the fiber content of the formula. Continuous infusion may also increase the risk of aspiration, diarrhea, and bacterial contamination.

Choice B reason: Increasing the amount of free water can help prevent or treat constipation by hydrating the stool and facilitating its passage. The client's fluid intake and output indicate a fluid deficit, which can contribute to constipation. The recommended fluid intake for adults is 30 to 35 mL/kg/day.

Choice C reason: Decreasing the infusion rate of feeding may worsen the constipation, as it reduces the caloric and fluid intake of the client. The infusion rate should be based on the client's nutritional needs and tolerance.

Choice D reason: Requesting a prescription for a diuretic is not appropriate, as it would further dehydrate the client and aggravate the constipation. Diuretics are indicated for clients with fluid overload, not fluid deficit.

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.