A nurse is assisting in monitoring a client who is receiving a tube feeding. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Temperature 38.2° C (100.8° F)
Hematocrit 45%
Respiratory rate 12/min
Urine specific gravity 1.015
The Correct Answer is A
A. This temperature is slightly elevated (normal range is typically around 36.5-37.5°C or 97.7-99.5°F). While a mild temperature elevation could indicate infection or other underlying issues, it may not be immediately critical unless accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, increased heart rate, or signs of respiratory distress.
B. Hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. A hematocrit of 45% is within the normal range for adults. However, changes in hematocrit levels over time can indicate fluid balance issues
or nutritional status, which are important to monitor but may not be an acute priority unless significantly abnormal.
C. A respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute is within the normal range for adults. However, it's essential to consider if this rate is stable or if there are signs of respiratory distress such as increased effort or decreased oxygen saturation. Respiratory status should always be closely monitored, but a normal rate alone is not a priority concern.
D. Urine specific gravity measures the concentration of urine and can indicate hydration status. A specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range for urine concentration. However, changes in urine output or specific gravity can provide insights into fluid balance and renal function over time.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. In fluid volume deficit, there is hemoconcentration due to decreased fluid volume, resulting in an increase in hematocrit rather than a decrease. Therefore, a decreased hematocrit would not be an expected finding in fluid volume deficit.
B. Urine ketones are typically elevated in conditions where there is increased fat metabolism, such as in diabetic ketoacidosis or starvation. They are not directly related to fluid volume deficit and would not be an expected finding.
C. Urine specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in the urine, indicating the kidney's ability to concentrate or dilute urine. In fluid volume deficit, the body conserves water, leading to increased urine concentration and higher urine specific gravity. Therefore, increased urine specific gravity is an expected finding in fluid volume deficit.
D. BUN is a measure of kidney function and protein metabolism. In fluid volume deficit, there is hemoconcentration due to decreased fluid volume, which can lead to an increase in BUN rather than a decrease. A decreased BUN would not typically be an expected finding in fluid volume deficit.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Skin tenting occurs when the skin loses its elasticity due to dehydration. When gently pinched, the skin may remain elevated and return to its normal position slowly. This finding is a classic sign of dehydration and indicates that the client has lost significant fluid volume.
B. Elevated blood pressure (BP) can sometimes be associated with dehydration, especially in acute cases or when there are underlying conditions like hypovolemia. However, it is not typically a primary indicator of dehydration. Hypotension (low blood pressure) is more commonly associated with severe dehydration.
C. Red mucous membranes may indicate various conditions, including dehydration. Dehydration can lead to dryness and mucosal irritation, resulting in redness. However, red mucous membranes alone are not specific enough to reliably indicate dehydration without considering other signs and symptoms.
D. Jugular vein distention (JVD) is associated with fluid overload rather than dehydration. It occurs when there is increased pressure in the venous system, often due to heart failure or fluid retention. JVD is not typically seen in dehydrated individuals.
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