A nurse is caring for a client with numerous episodes of watery diarrhea. The client reports eating some spoiled deli meat earlier in the day. The client asks if they should take loperamide (Imodium) to stop the diarrhea. What would be an appropriate response from the nurse?

Choice A Reason:

A 24-hour urinary output of 380 mL indicates oliguria. Oliguria is defined as a urine output of less than 400-500 mL per day in adults. This condition can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, kidney dysfunction, or postoperative complications. Monitoring urine output is crucial for assessing kidney function and overall fluid balance, especially after major surgeries like a colon resection.

Choice B Reason:

A 24-hour urinary output of 550 mL is slightly above the threshold for oliguria. While it is still relatively low, it does not meet the strict criteria for oliguria, which is typically defined as less than 400-500 mL per day. This output suggests that the client is producing an adequate amount of urine, though it may still warrant close monitoring to ensure it does not decrease further.

Choice C Reason:

A 24-hour urinary output of 600 mL is within the normal range and does not indicate oliguria. Normal urine output for adults is generally considered to be around 800-2000 mL per day, depending on fluid intake and other factors. This output suggests that the client’s kidneys are functioning properly and that there is no immediate concern for oliguria.

Choice D Reason:

A 24-hour urinary output of 720 mL is also within the normal range and does not indicate oliguria. This output is closer to the lower end of the normal range but still suggests adequate kidney function. It is important to continue monitoring the client’s urine output to ensure it remains within a healthy range, especially after surgery.

Choice A Reason:

Hyperkalosis is incorrect. Hyperkalosis refers to an elevated level of potassium in the blood, which is not directly related to the pH level. While hyperkalemia can occur in acidosis, it is not the primary condition indicated by a low pH

Choice B Reason:

Hyponatremia is incorrect. Hyponatremia refers to low sodium levels in the blood. It does not directly affect the pH level and is not indicated by the pH value provided.

Choice C Reason:

Acidosis is correct. The normal pH range for arterial blood is 7.35 to 7.45. A pH of 7.10 is below this range, indicating that the blood is too acidic. This condition is known as acidosis.

Choice D Reason:

Alkalosis is incorrect. Alkalosis refers to a condition where the blood pH is higher than the normal range, indicating that the blood is too basic. A pH of 7.10 is too low, not too high, and therefore indicates acidosis.