A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is experiencing delirium. Which of the following in the health record should the nurse identify as a cause of this disorder?

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because intestinal obstruction is not a common complication of ileostomy surgery. An ileostomy is a surgical opening in the abdomen that connects the end of the small intestine (ileum) to a pouch or bag outside the body. This allows stool to bypass the colon and rectum. Intestinal obstruction can occur if there is a blockage or narrowing in any part of the digestive tract, but it is more likely to affect the colon than the ileum.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because folate deficiency is not a common complication of ileostomy surgery. Folate is a vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Folate is mainly absorbed in the jejunum, which is the middle part of the small intestine. An ileostomy does not affect the jejunum, so it does not interfere with folate absorption.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because malabsorption of fat is not a common complication of ileostomy surgery. Fat is digested and absorbed in both the small and large intestine. An ileostomy does not affect fat digestion, but it may reduce fat absorption by decreasing the transit time and surface area of the intestine. However, this is usually not significant enough to cause malabsorption symptoms.

Choice D Reason: This is correct because fluid and electrolyte imbalance is a common complication of ileostomy surgery. Fluid and electrolytes are mainly absorbed in the colon, which is bypassed by an ileostomy. This can result in increased fluid and electrolyte loss through stool, especially sodium and potassium. This can lead to dehydration, hypotension, weakness, cramps, or arrhythmias.

Choice A Reason: A distended bladder is one of the most common triggers of autonomic dysreflexia, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs in clients with spinal cord injuries above T-6. The bladder becomes overfilled and stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, causing vasoconstriction and hypertension.

Choice B Reason: A severe headache is one of the most common symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia, caused by the increased blood pressure in the brain. The headache may be accompanied by blurred vision, sweating, flushing, or anxiety.

Choice C Reason: An elevated blood pressure is the hallmark sign of autonomic dysreflexia, which can reach dangerously high levels and cause stroke, seizure, or death. The blood pressure may rise up to 300/160 mmHg or higher.

Choice D Reason: Nasal congestion is another possible trigger of autonomic dysreflexia, as it stimulates the nasal mucosa and activates the sympathetic nervous system. Other potential triggers include bowel impaction, skin irritation, tight clothing, or temperature changes.