A nurse is collecting data from an older adult client who has a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Fluid overload is a potential complication of blood transfusion, and dyspnea is one of the hallmarks of fluid overload. Other signs and symptoms of fluid overload include a headache, hypertension, jugular vein distention, rapid breathing, and tachycardia.

An explanation for incorrect choices:

B. Fever is generally not associated with fluid overload but can be a sign of an adverse reaction to the blood transfusion, such as a febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reaction.

C. Pruritus is typically not associated with fluid overload but can be a sign of an adverse reaction to the blood transfusion, such as an allergic reaction.

D. Bradycardia is not typically associatedwith fluid overload but can be a sign of an adverse reaction to the blood transfusion, such as a hemolytic transfusion reaction.

The correct answer is Choice a. "You will be moderately sedated during the procedure."

Choice A rationale: Colonoscopy is a common procedure used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in gastroenterology. Moderate sedation, also known as conscious sedation, is typically administered to patients undergoing colonoscopy to ensure their comfort and cooperation during the procedure. This level of sedation allows the patient to maintain their protective reflexes and respond to verbal commands, while also reducing anxiety and discomfort. The sedative agents commonly used for colonoscopy include benzodiazepines such as midazolam and analgesics such as fentanyl. The nurse should emphasize the use of moderate sedation to the patient, reassuring them that they will be in a relaxed state throughout the procedure without compromising their safety.

Choice B rationale: The statement suggesting that the patient will lie on their right side for the procedure is incorrect. During a colonoscopy, patients are typically positioned on their left side with their knees drawn up towards their chest. This left lateral decubitus position facilitates the advancement of the colonoscope through the colon and provides better visualization for the healthcare provider performing the procedure. Placing the patient on the right side would not provide optimal positioning and may hinder the progress of the colonoscopy.

Choice C rationale: The information provided in statement c. is incorrect regarding the dietary restrictions before a colonoscopy. Prior to the procedure, patients are instructed to follow a clear liquid diet for 24 to 48 hours, depending on the healthcare provider's instructions. Clear liquids include water, clear broth, tea, coffee without milk or cream, strained fruit juices (such as apple or white grape juice), and sports drinks. Solid foods, as well as liquids that are not transparent, should be avoided during this preparatory period to ensure adequate bowel cleansing and visualization during the colonoscopy.

Choice D rationale: The recommendation to warm the liquid bowel preparation before consumption, as stated in option d., is incorrect. Bowel preparations typically consist of polyethylene glycol-based solutions, which are intended to be consumed at room temperature or chilled. Warming the solution could alter its composition and taste, potentially causing discomfort or nausea in the patient. It is essential for patients to follow the specific instructions provided by their healthcare provider or the product labeling regarding the administration of bowel preparation to ensure effective bowel cleansing before the colonoscopy.

Choice E rationale: Repeated for emphasis, the advice to warm the liquid bowel preparation before consumption is incorrect and redundant. Patients should adhere strictly to the instructions provided by their healthcare provider or the product labeling regarding the administration of bowel preparation. Warming the solution is not recommended and could compromise the effectiveness of the preparation, leading to suboptimal bowel cleansing and potentially impacting the accuracy of the colonoscopy results.