A nurse is caring for a client who is being admitted for an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Investigate the client's emotional concerns.
Check the client's perianal skin integrity.
Obtain a dietary history from the client.
Review the client's electrolyte values.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Investigate the client's emotional concerns:
While addressing emotional concerns is important, assessing electrolyte imbalances and physiological stability takes precedence in managing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis.
B. Check the client's perianal skin integrity:
Assessing perianal skin integrity is crucial, especially in inflammatory bowel disease, but it might not be the immediate priority compared to evaluating electrolyte imbalances.
C. Obtain a dietary history from the client:
Although dietary history is relevant for managing ulcerative colitis, the urgency lies in assessing and managing potential electrolyte imbalances due to the exacerbation of the condition.
D. Review the client's electrolyte values:
This is the correct action. During an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, the client is at risk of electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea, dehydration, and potential fluid and electrolyte losses. Promptly reviewing the electrolyte values helps identify any imbalances that might require immediate intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Atorvastatin: Atorvastatin is a statin medication used to lower cholesterol levels. It is not known to cause glucose intolerance.
B. Prednisone: Prednisone is a corticosteroid and can cause glucose intolerance by increasing blood glucose levels. Corticosteroids can lead to insulin resistance, impaired glucose utilization, and increased gluconeogenesis.
C. Ranitidine: Ranitidine is an H2 receptor antagonist used to reduce stomach acid production. It is not known to cause glucose intolerance.
D. Guaifenesin: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to help loosen mucus in the airways. It is not known to cause glucose intolerance.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tremors:
Tremors or shaking is a common symptom of hypoglycemia. When blood glucose levels drop too low, the body reacts by releasing hormones like adrenaline, leading to symptoms such as tremors, shakiness, and palpitations.
B. Bradycardia:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with hypoglycemia. Instead, hypoglycemia tends to stimulate the release of adrenaline, which can increase heart rate.
C. Vomiting:
Vomiting is not a classic manifestation of hypoglycemia. Nausea may occur, but vomiting is more commonly associated with conditions such as hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis.
D. Fruity odor on the client’s breath:
A fruity odor on the breath is more commonly associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in individuals with diabetes mellitus, particularly when there is an accumulation of ketones in the body. It is not a typical manifestation of hypoglycemia.
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