A nurse on a mental health unit is admitting a client.
Exhibits
Select the 3 client findings the nurse should recognize as manifestations of water intoxication.
Activity level
White blood cell count
Sodium level
Potassium level
Hallucinations
Correct Answer : A,C,E
A. Activity level: Restlessness, pacing, and inability to remain seated are early neurological manifestations of water intoxication, stemming from cerebral edema related to hyponatremia. These signs often precede more severe symptoms like seizures.
B. White blood cell count: A count of 9,100/mm³ is within normal limits and does not indicate water intoxication. This value is unrelated to the dilutional effects of excessive fluid intake.
C. Sodium level: A sodium of 130 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which is a hallmark laboratory finding in water intoxication due to dilutional effects from excess fluid intake. Low sodium can cause neurological changes and altered mental status.
D. Potassium level: A potassium of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range and does not support a diagnosis of water intoxication. Potassium is less affected by acute overhydration compared to sodium.
E. Hallucinations: Responding to unseen stimuli can occur when hyponatremia causes cerebral swelling, disrupting normal brain function. In clients with psychotic disorders, excess water intake can exacerbate hallucinations or make them more pronounced.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Bleeding gums: Mild bleeding gums can occur during pregnancy due to increased vascularity and hormonal changes. While uncomfortable, this finding is generally not urgent and can be managed with routine oral care.
B. Fundal height of 26 cm: A fundal height slightly above the gestational age (24 weeks vs. 26 cm) may be within normal variation, especially if the client has a larger fetus or multiple gestations. It should be monitored but is not immediately concerning.
C. Periorbital edema: Swelling around the eyes can be an early sign of preeclampsia, a potentially serious pregnancy complication. This finding should be reported promptly to the provider for further assessment and management.
D. White vaginal discharge: Mild, white, and non-odorous discharge (leukorrhea) is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It is typically considered normal unless accompanied by odor, itching, or irritation.
Correct Answer is B,D,C,A
Explanation
Rationale:
B. Place the child in a sitting position: Positioning the child upright or with the head slightly tilted back promotes comfort, stability, and proper visualization of the conjunctival sac for accurate drop placement.
D. Pull the lower eyelid downward: This creates a conjunctival pocket that holds the medication and allows it to spread evenly over the eye surface without spilling.
C. Instill the drops of medication: Instillation should occur after exposing the conjunctival sac to ensure the medication reaches the target area. The dropper should not touch the eye to prevent contamination.
A. Apply pressure to the lacrimal punctum: This step is performed last to prevent systemic absorption of the medication by blocking the nasolacrimal duct. Holding gentle pressure for about 1 minute helps maximize the local effect of the drops.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.