A nurse is caring for an older adult client. The nurse informs the client that straining while defecating can cause which of the following?

A) Flushed skin: Flushed skin is not typically associated with hyponatremia. Instead, hyponatremia may present with symptoms such as pallor or cool, clammy skin due to alterations in perfusion and fluid balance.

B) Fever: Fever is not a common manifestation of hyponatremia. Elevated body temperature is typically associated with conditions such as infection or inflammation rather than electrolyte imbalances like hyponatremia.

C) Nausea and vomiting: Hyponatremia, defined as a serum sodium level below 135 mEq/L, can lead to neurological symptoms, including nausea and vomiting. These symptoms occur due to alterations in osmotic pressure and cellular swelling resulting from the relative excess of water compared to sodium in the extracellular fluid. Other neurological symptoms of hyponatremia can include headache, confusion, lethargy, and seizures.

D) Extreme thirst: Extreme thirst, or polydipsia, is more commonly associated with hypernatremia, which is characterized by a serum sodium level above 145 mEq/L. Hypernatremia results from dehydration or a deficit of body water relative to sodium, leading to increased thirst as the body attempts to restore fluid balance.

A) "You will have control of administering your own pain medication":
This statement accurately describes the function of a PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) device, where the client has control over administering their own pain medication within preset limits. Empowering the client to manage their pain helps promote autonomy and individualized pain management.

B) "The pain medication is delivered into your muscle":
This statement is incorrect because PCA devices typically deliver medication intravenously, not into the muscle. It's important for the client to understand the route of administration to use the device effectively and safely.

C) "Your partner can push the PCA button for you if you are asleep":
Allowing someone else to activate the PCA button for the client can lead to overmedication and is not recommended. PCA devices are designed for the client to self-administer medication based on their own pain experience and need.

D) "A large dose of pain medication is given with each injection":
This statement is inaccurate because PCA devices are programmed to deliver a controlled dose of medication with each activation, usually within safe limits set by the healthcare provider. The doses are typically set to avoid overdosing while providing effective pain relief.