A nurse is caring for a male client who is postoperative.
Which of the following client findings should the nurse identify as being consistent with dumping syndrome? Select all that apply.
Vital signs
Prescribed diet
Skin appearance
Blood glucose level
WBC count
Correct Answer : A,C,D
A. Vital signs. The client has a significantly elevated heart rate (110/min) and elevated blood pressure (178/82 mm Hg), both of which can be associated with autonomic responses in dumping syndrome. The dizziness and desire to lie down after eating are also classic symptoms. These signs reflect the body’s reaction to rapid gastric emptying and fluid shifts.
B. Prescribed diet. While a bland, soft diet is generally safe post-gastrectomy, it may not prevent dumping syndrome unless it includes specific modifications like low carbohydrate intake and small, frequent meals. However, this option alone does not directly indicate dumping syndrome.
C. Skin appearance. The client is noted to be diaphoretic and pale, which are common symptoms of dumping syndrome due to the vasomotor response and hypoglycemia that can follow rapid gastric emptying.
D. Blood glucose level. The client's fasting blood glucose dropped to 65 mg/dL, which is below the normal range. Hypoglycemia is a hallmark of late dumping syndrome, resulting from excessive insulin release after rapid carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine.
E. WBC count. The WBC count is within normal range (9,000/mm³) and does not indicate dumping syndrome or an infectious process. It is not relevant in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Place the client in a supine position. As clients near the end of life, the supine position may compromise breathing. A semi-Fowler’s or lateral position is usually preferred to promote comfort and respiratory ease.
B. Remind the client to eat scheduled meals daily. At the end of life, appetite typically decreases, and forcing food can cause discomfort. Nutrition should be offered based on the client's desire, not forced on a strict schedule.
C. Offer the client a blanket to keep warm. Clients nearing death often experience peripheral circulation decline, leading to feelings of coldness. Providing a blanket promotes comfort and warmth without being invasive.
D. Speak in a loud tone when addressing the client. Loud speech can be disorienting and distressing, especially if the client is already weak or confused. Use a calm, clear, and gentle tone to provide comfort and maintain dignity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Respiratory rate 10/min. This is the priority finding because it suggests respiratory depression, a serious side effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. Magnesium acts as a CNS depressant, and a respiratory rate below 12/min is a potential sign of magnesium toxicity, which can lead to respiratory arrest if not promptly addressed.
B. 2+ deep-tendon reflexes. This indicates normal neuromuscular function and is actually a reassuring finding in a client receiving magnesium sulfate. Reflexes are typically monitored to detect early signs of toxicity, and a 2+ rating means the dose is likely therapeutic.
C. 3+ pedal edema. While significant, pedal edema is a common feature of preeclampsia and not directly related to magnesium sulfate toxicity. It should be monitored but does not require immediate action compared to respiratory compromise.
D. Urinary output 35 mL/hr. This is slightly above the minimum acceptable output of 30 mL/hr, indicating the kidneys are excreting adequately. While magnesium is excreted renally and output must be monitored, this value does not indicate an acute risk.
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