A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving IV fluids to correct dehydration. Which of the following laboratory values should indicate to the nurse that the patient is effectively responding to treatment?
Urine specific gravity of 1.020
Serum sodium of 165 mEq/L
Hematocrit of 48%
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 12 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Urine specific gravity measures the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. A normal range is typically 1.005–1.030. A value of 1.020 indicates adequate hydration and suggests that the patient is responding well to IV fluid therapy.
Choice B reason: Serum sodium levels reflect electrolyte balance. The normal range is 135–145 mEq/L. A level of 165 mEq/L is significantly elevated, indicating hypernatremia, which could be a sign of inadequate hydration and not a positive response to treatment.
Choice C reason: Hematocrit represents the proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. Normal ranges are 38.3–48.6% for men and 35.5–44.9% for women. A hematocrit of 48% is at the upper limit of normal and does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of dehydration treatment.
Choice D reason: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels can indicate renal function and hydration status. The normal range is 7–20 mg/dL. A BUN of 12 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not specifically reflect the patient's response to IV fluids for dehydration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A: Apply heat for 10 minutes every hour
Applying heat can help to relax the muscles and relieve tension, which can reduce pain. Heat therapy increases blood flow, which can aid in healing and reduce stiffness.
Choice B: Sleep in a side lying position with flexed knees
Sleeping in a side-lying position with flexed knees can help to maintain the natural curve of the spine and reduce strain on the back muscles. It's also recommended to use a pillow between the knees for additional support.
Choice C: Avoid prolonged sitting
Prolonged sitting can put pressure on the discs in your lower back and cause or exacerbate pain. It's recommended to take regular breaks to stand up and move around.
Choice D: Use padded shoe insoles
While padded shoe insoles can provide comfort and support for some people, there's no strong evidence to suggest that they can help to prevent or relieve back pain.
Choice E: Sleep on a soft mattress
Contrary to popular belief, a soft mattress may not be the best choice for people with back pain. A mattress that's too soft can cause your back to sink into the mattress, leading to poor sleep posture and discomfort. It's generally recommended to choose a mattress that provides good support and maintains the spine's natural alignment.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Propranolol is contraindicated in patients with asthma as it may cause bronchoconstriction, exacerbating respiratory difficulties.
Choice B reason: Glaucoma is not a contraindication for propranolol; in fact, betablockers can be used to treat glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure.
Choice C reason: Depression is not a direct contraindication, but caution is advised as propranolol can sometimes worsen symptoms of depression.
Choice D reason: Propranolol is often used as a preventive treatment for migraines and is not contraindicated in patients with this condition.
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