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: Bran cereal is high in phosphorus, containing about 34% of the DV per cup (118 g) ( 1 ). Phosphorus is a mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth, but too much of it can cause problems for people with kidney disease. The kidneys normally filter out excess phosphorus from the blood, but when they are damaged, phosphorus can build up and cause bone loss, itching, and calcification of blood vessels and organs ( 2 ).

Choice B reason: A medium apple is low in phosphorus, containing only 3% of the DV per 182 g ( 3 ). Apples are also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, which are beneficial for people with kidney disease ( 4 ).

Choice C reason: Scrambled eggs are moderate in phosphorus, containing about 12% of the DV per large egg (50 g) ( 5 ). Eggs are also high in protein, which can increase the workload of the kidneys and worsen kidney function. People with kidney disease should limit their protein intake to 0.8 g per kg of body weight per day, unless advised otherwise by their doctor ( 6 ).

Choice D reason: Ground turkey is high in phosphorus, containing about 16% of the DV per 3 oz (85 g) ( 7 ). Ground turkey is also high in protein, which can have the same negative effects as eggs on kidney function. People with kidney disease should choose lean meats and poultry, and eat them in moderation.

Choice A reason: Increased cholesterol is not an indication that the weight loss program has been effective, as it is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. The nurse should expect the client's cholesterol level to decrease as a result of the weight loss program, as it can lower the production and absorption of cholesterol in the body.

Choice B reason: Increased glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is not an indication that the weight loss program has been effective, as it is a measure of the average blood glucose level over the past 2 to 3 months. The nurse should expect the client's HbA1c level to decrease as a result of the weight loss program, as it can improve the insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism of the body.

Choice C reason: Increased LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is not an indication that the weight loss program has been effective, as it is the "bad" cholesterol that can accumulate in the arteries and cause atherosclerosis. The nurse should expect the client's LDL level to decrease as a result of the weight loss program, as it can reduce the synthesis and secretion of LDL in the liver.

Choice D reason: Increased HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is an indication that the weight loss program has been effective, as it is the "good" cholesterol that can remove excess cholesterol from the blood and transport it to the liver for excretion. The nurse should expect the client's HDL level to increase as a result of the weight loss program, as it can enhance the activity and expression of HDL in the body.