A patient experiencing multisystem fluid volume deficit has tachycardia, pale, cool skin, and decreased urine output. The nurse realizes these findings are most likely a direct result of which process?
Effects of rapidly infused intravenous fluids.
The body's natural compensatory mechanisms.
Cardiac failure.
Pharmacological effects of a diuretic.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because effects of rapidly infused intravenous fluids are not the cause of the patient's findings, but a possible treatment. Rapidly infused intravenous fluids are used to restore fluid volume and prevent shock in patients with fluid volume deficit. Rapidly infused intravenous fluids can cause increased blood pressure, increased urine output, and decreased heart rate.
Choice B Reason: This is correct because the body's natural compensatory mechanisms are the cause of the patient's findings. The body tries to maintain homeostasis and perfusion in response to fluid volume deficit by activating the sympathetic nervous system, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and the antidiuretic hormone system. These mechanisms cause tachycardia, vasoconstriction, pale and cool skin, sodium and water retention, and decreased urine output.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because cardiac failure is not the cause of the patient's findings, but a possible complication. Cardiac failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Cardiac failure can result from prolonged fluid volume deficit, as the heart becomes overstressed and weakened by the increased workload and decreased perfusion. Cardiac failure can cause dyspnea, edema, fatigue, and cyanosis.
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because pharmacological effects of a diuretic are not the cause of the patient's findings, but a possible cause of fluid volume deficit. A diuretic is a medication that increases urine output and excretion of sodium and water. A diuretic can cause fluid volume deficit if it is overdosed, misused, or taken with other medications that affect fluid balance. A diuretic can cause hypotension, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is a) PaCO2 50 mm Hg. This is because respiratory acidosis is a condition in which the lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide from the blood, resulting in a high level of PaCO2. The normal range of PaCO2 is 35 to 45 mm Hg.
Choice b) HCO3 30 mEq/L is incorrect because this is a normal value for bicarbonate, which is a buffer that helps maintain the acid-base balance in the blood. The normal range of HCO3 is 22 to 26 mEq/L.
Choice c) pH 7.45 is incorrect because this is a normal value for the acidity or alkalinity of the blood. The normal range of pH is 7.35 to 7.45. Respiratory acidosis causes a low pH, indicating acidemia.
Choice d) Potassium 3.3 mEq/L is incorrect because this is a low value for potassium, which is an electrolyte that helps regulate nerve and muscle function, fluid balance, and blood pressure. The normal range of potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Respiratory acidosis can cause hyperkalemia, or high potassium levels, due to the shift of hydrogen ions into cells and potassium out of cells.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: 18 mg/dL is incorrect because it is within the normal range of BUN, which is 7 to 20 mg/dL. BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen, which is a measure of the amount of nitrogen in the blood that comes from urea, a waste product of protein metabolism. BUN can reflect the kidney function and hydration status of the client.
Choice B: 10 mg/dL is incorrect because it is also within the normal range of BUN. A low BUN level can indicate liver problems, malnutrition, or overhydration.
Choice C: 13 mg/dL is incorrect because it is also within the normal range of BUN. A normal BUN level does not necessarily rule out dehydration, as other factors such as diet, medications, and blood loss can affect the BUN level.
Choice D: 25 mg/dL is correct because it is above the normal range of BUN and indicates a high BUN level. A high BUN level can indicate dehydration, kidney failure, urinary tract obstruction, heart failure, or excessive protein intake. The nurse should report this value to the provider as it may require further evaluation and treatment.

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