A nurse is caring for a client who has been vomiting and has diarrhea. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of fluid volume deficit?
BUN 18 mg/dL.
A thready pulse.
Hemoglobin 15 g/dL.
Prominent neck veins.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice B: A thready pulse.
Choice A rationale:
BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level of 18 mg/dL falls within the normal range, which is typically around 7-20 mg/dL. An elevated BUN might indicate dehydration or kidney dysfunction, but a value of 18 mg/dL does not necessarily suggest fluid volume deficit.
Choice B rationale:
A thready pulse is a weak and easily compressible pulse that indicates poor circulation and reduced fluid volume in the circulatory system. Vomiting and diarrhea lead to fluid loss, which can result in fluid volume deficit. Thus, a thready pulse is a significant finding in this context.
Choice C rationale:
Hemoglobin level of 15 g/dL is within the normal range for hemoglobin (usually around 12-16 g/dL for women and 14-18 g/dL for men). While vomiting and diarrhea can lead to mild dehydration, a hemoglobin level of 15 g/dL alone does not strongly suggest fluid volume deficit.
Choice D rationale:
Prominent neck veins are typically associated with increased central venous pressure, which can indicate fluid volume overload rather than fluid volume deficit. In the context of vomiting and diarrhea, neck veins are unlikely to become prominent due to volume depletion.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B: A client who has measles.
Choice A rationale:
Airborne precautions are indicated for diseases that spread via small particles suspended in the air, such as droplets or dust particles that remain in the air for prolonged periods. Pneumonia is primarily spread through larger respiratory droplets and is not considered an airborne disease. Therefore, airborne precautions are not necessary for a client with pneumonia.
Choice B rationale:
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by the measles virus. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets and can remain in the air for an extended period. Initiating airborne precautions, such as wearing an N95 respirator mask and placing the client in a negative pressure isolation room, is crucial to prevent the spread of measles to healthcare workers and other patients.
Choice C rationale:
Pertussis (whooping cough) is primarily spread through respiratory droplets, similar to pneumonia. While it is a serious bacterial infection, it is not classified as an airborne disease. Thus, airborne precautions are not required for a client with pertussis.
Choice D rationale:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is mainly spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or individuals. Airborne precautions are not necessary for MRSA, as it is not transmitted through the air. Standard precautions, including wearing gloves and gowns, are typically sufficient when caring for a client with MRSA.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C: 3+ pitting edema.
Choice A rationale:
1+ pitting edema refers to mild pitting edema. It is characterized by a slight indentation that disappears rapidly. A measurement of 6 mm edema is beyond the scope of 1+ pitting edema.
Choice B rationale:
2+ pitting edema indicates moderate pitting edema. It is characterized by a deeper indentation that takes a few seconds to rebound. While 6 mm edema might be associated with 2+ pitting edema, it is not the most accurate description.
Choice C rationale:
3+ pitting edema signifies moderately severe pitting edema. It is characterized by a noticeable indentation that remains for a short duration. A measurement of 6 mm edema aligns with 3+ pitting edema, making it the correct choice.
Choice D rationale:
4+ pitting edema represents severe pitting edema. It is characterized by a deep indentation that persists for a significant amount of time. 6 mm edema is not typically associated with 4+ pitting edema.
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