A nurse is providing care for an older adult client who has hyperglycemia, polydipsia, and polyuria. Which of the following manifestations supports the clinical presentation of hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS)? (Select All that Apply.)
Acetone breath.
Fever.
Serum glucose 800 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL).
Serum bicarbonate 15 mEq/L (21 to 28 mEq/L).
Insidious onset.
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A rationale
Acetone breath is a characteristic symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), not hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS). In DKA, the body produces ketones, leading to a fruity or acetone-like breath odor. HHS, on the other hand, does not typically involve significant ketone production.
Choice B rationale
Fever can be a manifestation of HHS, often due to an underlying infection or illness that precipitates the hyperglycemic state. Infections are common triggers for HHS, leading to elevated body temperature.
Choice C rationale
Serum glucose levels of 800 mg/dL are indicative of HHS. HHS is characterized by extremely high blood glucose levels, often exceeding 600 mg/dL, without significant ketoacidosis.
Choice D rationale
Serum bicarbonate levels of 15 mEq/L are more indicative of DKA rather than HHS. In HHS, bicarbonate levels are usually within the normal range because there is no significant ketoacidosis.
Choice E rationale
Insidious onset is a hallmark of HHS. The condition develops gradually over days to weeks, unlike DKA, which has a more rapid onset.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Constipation is not a common adverse effect of aspirin therapy. Aspirin primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract by causing irritation, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Constipation is more commonly associated with medications that slow down bowel movements, such as opioids.
Choice B rationale
Blurred vision is not typically associated with aspirin therapy. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation and pain. Blurred vision is more commonly associated with medications that affect the central nervous system or have anticholinergic effects.
Choice C rationale
Insomnia is not a common adverse effect of aspirin therapy. Aspirin does not have stimulant properties that would interfere with sleep. Insomnia is more commonly associated with medications that have stimulating effects, such as caffeine or certain antidepressants.
Choice D rationale
Bleeding is a well-known adverse effect of aspirin therapy. Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation, which can increase the risk of bleeding. This can manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding, easy bruising, or prolonged bleeding from cuts. Patients taking aspirin should be monitored for signs of bleeding and advised to report any unusual bleeding to their healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring potassium levels is essential when taking thiazide diuretics because these medications can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Regular blood tests help ensure that potassium levels remain within a safe range.
Choice B rationale
Limiting alcohol consumption to 3 drinks a day is not recommended for individuals with hypertension. Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure and negate the benefits of other lifestyle modifications.
Choice C rationale
Setting a goal body weight within 25% of ideal body weight is not an appropriate recommendation. The goal should be to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, which is typically defined as a BMI within the normal range.
Choice D rationale
Lowering sodium intake to 3,000 mg each day is still above the recommended limit. The American Heart Association recommends reducing sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day, with an ideal limit of 1,500 mg per day for most adults.
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