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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The statement about eating a high fiber diet reducing the risk for developing skin cancer is misleading. While a high fiber diet has many health benefits, there is no direct evidence that it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer prevention primarily focuses on protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure and avoiding ultraviolet (UV) light sources.
Choice B reason:
Avoiding the use of tanning booths is correct advice. Tanning booths emit UV radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The use of tanning beds is strongly discouraged by health professionals.
Choice C reason:
Using sunscreen even on cloudy days is also correct. UV rays can penetrate through clouds, and sun protection is necessary regardless of the weather to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed skin and reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
Choice D reason:
Checking the skin monthly for any changes is an important part of skin cancer prevention. Early detection of changes in moles or new skin growths can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial for a better prognosis. This practice should be encouraged as part of routine self-care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Pneumothorax, a collapsed lung, can indeed cause shortness of breath and dyspnea. However, it is typically associated with a sudden onset of these symptoms following a chest injury or spontaneously in the case of a ruptured air blister. In the context of a femoral head fracture, pneumothorax is less likely unless there was additional trauma to the chest area.
Choice B reason:
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that leads to inflammation of the air sacs, causing them to fill with fluid or pus. Symptoms include cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. While pneumonia could cause dyspnea, it usually develops due to an infectious process rather than directly from a femoral head fracture.
Choice C reason:
Airway obstruction involves a blockage that prevents air from passing freely to the lungs. It can be caused by foreign objects, swelling due to allergic reactions, or other medical conditions. The symptoms of airway obstruction include difficulty breathing, wheezing, and potential changes in skin color. However, airway obstruction is not commonly a direct complication of a femoral head fracture.
Choice D reason:
Fat embolism syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when fat globules enter the bloodstream and lodge within the pulmonary vasculature, leading to respiratory distress. It is a known complication following long bone fractures, such as the femur, and presents with symptoms like shortness of breath, hypoxemia, and neurological manifestations. Given the recent femoral head fracture and the symptoms reported, fat embolism syndrome is the most likely diagnosis.
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