A nurse is providing care for an older adult client who has diabetes insipidus (DI). The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following neurological effects?
Hypotension
Poor skin turgor
Ataxia
Dilute urine
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Hypotension
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can be a consequence of dehydration, which is a common complication of DI due to the excessive loss of water. However, hypotension is not a direct neurological effect of DI. It is more of a circulatory system response to the changes in fluid volume within the body.
Choice B reason: Poor skin turgor
Poor skin turgor is an indicator of dehydration, which can occur in DI due to the large volume of urine excreted. Skin turgor refers to the skin's ability to change shape and return to normal (elasticity), and it becomes less elastic when the body is dehydrated. While this is an important sign to monitor, it is not a neurological effect.
Choice C reason: Ataxia
Ataxia, which is a lack of muscle coordination affecting speech, eye movements, the ability to swallow, walking, picking up objects, and other voluntary movements, can be a neurological effect of DI if severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance affect the brain. Symptoms such as confusion and muscle cramps can also be associated with ataxia, making it a relevant neurological effect to monitor in a client with DI.
Choice D reason: Dilute urine
Dilute urine is a primary symptom of DI, not a neurological effect. It is the result of the kidneys' inability to concentrate urine due to a deficiency in the anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) or the kidneys' response to ADH. Monitoring urine concentration is crucial in managing DI, but it does not represent a neurological effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:Scheduling the procedure five days before the expected menses would place it in the late proliferative phase, which risks missing ongoing menstrual bleeding and could coincide with implantation if the client ovulated early. Best practice is to perform the test after menstruation ends but before ovulation—usually within 12 days of the first day of the last period—to ensure the client is not pregnant.
Choice B reason:
Diarrhea is not a common side effect of HSG. The procedure involves the insertion of a dye into the uterine cavity to visualize the fallopian tubes and uterus via X-ray. While some discomfort, cramping, or spotting may occur, diarrhea is not typically expected.
Choice C reason:
There is no requirement for a client to be on a liquid diet following an HSG procedure. The client can usually resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.
Choice D reason:
Referred shoulder pain can occur when contrast fluid spills through a patent tube into the peritoneal cavity, irritating the diaphragm’s undersurface and eliciting pain perceived at the shoulder via the phrenic nerve. Clients should be advised this is normal, short-lived, and relieved by positioning or mild analgesics.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While explaining discharge instructions is an important part of patient education and ensuring safety after leaving the hospital, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse must first address any potential medical issues that could compromise the patient's health, such as circulation and nerve function in the affected limb.
Choice B reason:
Applying an ice pack to the casted leg can help reduce swelling and provide comfort to the client. This is often recommended for the first 24 to 72 hours after the cast is applied, especially if the cast is on a leg. However, this is secondary to assessing the neurovascular status of the limb.
Choice C reason:
Performing a neurovascular assessment is the priority action for the nurse. This assessment includes checking for sensation, warmth, capillary refill, pulses, and movement. It is crucial to identify any signs of compromised blood flow or nerve injury early to prevent further complications.
Choice D reason:
Providing reassurance to the client and parents is important for emotional support and can help alleviate anxiety. However, the nurse's immediate priority is to ensure the physical well-being of the client, which includes performing a neurovascular assessment to detect any urgent issues.
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