A nurse is caring for a client who is malnourished. The client states, "When I do eat, I usually just eat bread and butter to get something in me." The nurse should recognize that the client is at risk for which of the following complications?

Choice D reason: A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a weight loss of about 0.45 kg (1 lb) per week, which is a safe and realistic goal for most clients. A pound of fat contains about 3,500 calories, so reducing the daily intake by 500 calories can create a deficit of 3,500 calories per week.

Choice A reason: A weight loss of 0.45 kg (1 lb) per day is too rapid and unhealthy, as it can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, muscle loss, and metabolic slowdown. It can also be unsustainable and lead to weight regain. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice B reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per day is also too rapid and unhealthy, for the same reasons as choice A. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice C reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per week is too slow and unlikely, as it would require a calorie reduction of only 250 fewer calories per day. This is not enough to create a significant deficit and stimulate weight loss. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a faster weight loss.

Choice A reason:A firm bilateral hand grip indicates normal muscle strength, which is a positive sign but not directly related to hypernatremia treatment efficacy.

Choice B reason: Fatigue is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Fatigue can be a symptom of hypernatremia, as well as dehydration, infection, or other conditions. The nurse should assess the client for other causes of fatigue and monitor their vital signs and fluid status.

Choice C reason:Deep tendon reflexes graded as 2+ are considered normal and suggest that neuromuscular function is intact. Since hypernatremia can cause neuromuscular excitability, normal reflexes may indicate effective treatment.

Choice D reason: Urine output 25 mL/hr is not a sign of effective treatment for hypernatremia. Urine output 25 mL/hr is below the normal range of 30 to 50 mL/hr and indicates oliguria, which can be a complication of hypernatremia. Oliguria can result from dehydration, kidney damage, or reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to hypernatremia. The nurse should notify the provider and administer fluids as prescribed.