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A nurse is caring for a client.

Exhibits

The nurse is collecting data from the client 12 hr later.

How should the nurse interpret the following findings?

For each potential finding, click to specify whether the finding is an indication of potential improvement or an indication of potential worsening condition.

A.

Vision

B.

Lithium level

C.

Urine output

D.

Mucous membranes

E.

Vital signs

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}

  • Vision (Blurred)

    • Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
    • Rationale: Blurred vision can be a sign of lithium toxicity. Despite the lithium level improving, this symptom indicates that neurotoxicity may still be present.

  • Lithium Level (1.2 mEq/L)

    • Interpretation: Potential improvement
    • Rationale: The lithium level has decreased from 1.8 mEq/L (toxic) to 1.2 mEq/L, which is within the therapeutic range (0.6-1.2 mEq/L). This indicates that treatment to lower lithium toxicity is effective.

  • Urine Output (40 mL/hr)

    • Interpretation: Potential improvement
    • Rationale: A urine output of 40 mL/hr is within the acceptable range (normal is greater than 30 mL/hr), suggesting that kidney function is adequate and not compromised by lithium toxicity.

  • Mucous Membranes (Pale, Dry)

    • Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
    • Rationale: Pale, dry mucous membranes suggest dehydration, which can increase the risk of lithium toxicity and negatively affect overall health.

  • Vital Signs (BP 88/50 mm Hg, Pulse 96/min)

    • Interpretation: Potential worsening condition
    • Rationale: The drop in blood pressure from 130/84 mm Hg to 88/50 mm Hg indicates hypotension. This could be related to dehydration or lithium toxicity, and it requires follow-up as the condition is deteriorating.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Alcohol-based hand rubs are not recommended before administering eye drops as they can cause eye irritation.
Choice B rationale:
Chlorhexidine is recommended for hand hygiene when caring for immunosuppressed clients as it has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
Choice C rationale:
Alcohol-based hand rubs are not effective against Clostridium difficile. Soap and water should be used instead.
Choice D rationale:
Artificial nails can harbor pathogens and are not recommended in healthcare settings.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Hemorrhagic stroke is characterized by sudden, severe headache, vomiting, and a significant increase in blood pressure, all of which are present in the client. This type of stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain.
Choice B rationale:
Thrombotic stroke is caused by a clot that develops in a blood vessel within the brain. It typically presents with less severe symptoms and a gradual onset, not a sudden one.
Choice C rationale:
Embolic stroke is caused by a clot that travels to the brain from another part of the body. Like thrombotic stroke, it typically has a more gradual onset.
Choice D rationale:
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. It usually lasts less than an hour and does not cause permanent damage.

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