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 A
Explanation
Choice A reason: An elevated oral temperature of 38.2°C (100.76°F) postoperatively can indicate an infection, which is a common complication after surgical procedures. In the context of TURP, a fever could suggest a urinary tract infection or sepsis, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as chills or an elevated white blood cell count.
Choice B reason: The output of burgundy-colored urine can be expected in the immediate postoperative period following a TURP due to bleeding. However, it should gradually lighten in color. Persistent or worsening hematuria could indicate a complication, but it is not uncommon to see some blood in the urine shortly after the procedure
Choice C reason: A pulse rate of 88/min is within the normal range (60-100 beats per minute) and is not typically indicative of a postoperative complication. It is important to consider the patient's baseline heart rate and any other symptoms they may be experiencing.
Choice D reason: Feeling an urge to void despite having an indwelling urinary catheter can occur due to bladder spasms or irritation from the catheter itself. While uncomfortable, this sensation is not uncommon after TURP and does not necessarily indicate a complication.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Testicular torsion is a condition where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It is not a typical complication following a prostatectomy. Testicular torsion is generally an acute condition that affects younger males and is unrelated to prostate surgery.
Choice B reason:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication after prostatectomy. The surgery can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erections, leading to ED. While nerve-sparing techniques aim to reduce this risk, some degree of erectile dysfunction is still possible after the procedure.
Choice C reason:
Cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder, can occur after a prostatectomy due to the use of a catheter or as a result of the surgery itself. However, it is not as common or as significant a long-term complication as erectile dysfunction.
Choice D reason:
Paralytic ileus, a temporary cessation of bowel movements, can occur after any abdominal surgery due to the manipulation of the intestines or as a side effect of anesthesia. While it can be a complication of prostatectomy, it is typically resolved within a few days to weeks after surgery.
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