A nurse is assessing a client with syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone (SIADH) Which of the following statements by the client indicates a possible complication of hyponatremia?

Choice A reason:

Administering hypertonic saline solution IV is not appropriate for a client with hypernatremia, because it will increase the serum sodium level and worsen the condition. Hypertonic saline is only used in severe cases of hyponatremia, when the serum sodium level is very low.

Choice B reason:

Encouraging the client to drink caffeinated beverages is not helpful for a client with hypernatremia, because caffeine can act as a diuretic and cause further fluid loss and dehydration. The client should be encouraged to drink water or hypotonic fluids to dilute the sodium concentration in the blood.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring the client's serum sodium level is the correct action for the nurse to take, because it will help to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and detect any changes in the client's condition. The normal serum sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L (135 to 145 mmol/L) The nurse should monitor the client's serum sodium level frequently and report any abnormal values to the provider.

Choice D reason:

Increasing the client's sodium intake is contraindicated for a client with hypernatremia, because it will raise the serum sodium level and aggravate the symptoms. The client should avoid foods high in sodium, such as processed meats, cheese, canned soups, and salty snacks.

Choice A reason:

Serum sodium level less than 135 mEq/L. This is an expected finding of hyponatremia, which is a condition of low sodium concentration in the blood. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions. Hyponatremia can result from excessive fluid intake, diuretic use, vomiting, diarrhea, or kidney disease.

Choice B reason:

Serum osmolality less than 280 mOsm/kg. This is an expected finding of hyponatremia, which is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the blood. Osmolality reflects the body's ability to maintain fluid balance and hydration status. Hyponatremia causes a decrease in osmolality due to dilution of the blood by excess water.

Choice C reason:

Urine specific gravity less than 1.010. This is an expected finding of hyponatremia, which is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the urine. Specific gravity reflects the kidney's ability to concentrate or dilute urine. Hyponatremia causes a decrease in specific gravity due to increased urine output and water excretion.

Choice D reason:

Urine sodium level greater than 20 mEq/L. This is an expected finding of hyponatremia, which is a measure of the amount of sodium excreted in the urine. Sodium excretion reflects the kidney's ability to regulate sodium balance and fluid volume. Hyponatremia causes an increase in urine sodium level due to impaired sodium reabsorption and increased sodium loss.

Choice E reason:

Serum potassium level greater than 5 mEq/L. This is not an expected finding of hyponatremia, but rather a finding of hyperkalemia, which is a condition of high potassium concentration in the blood. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate cardiac and neuromuscular function. Hyperkalemia can result from renal failure, acidosis, tissue injury, or medications that affect potassium excretion or shift.