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 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.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Intracellular fluid overload is incorrect because it is a condition where the fluid inside the cells exceeds the normal range. This can cause cellular swelling and dysfunction. Intracellular fluid overload can be caused by conditions such as hyponatremia, water intoxication, or syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).
Choice B: Intracellular fluid deficit is incorrect because it is a condition where the fluid inside the cells is below the normal range. This can cause cellular shrinkage and dysfunction. Intracellular fluid deficit can be caused by conditions such as hypernatremia, dehydration, or diabetes insipidus.
Choice C: Extracellular fluid deficit is correct because it is a condition where the fluid outside the cells is below the normal range. This can cause hypovolemia, hypotension, and impaired tissue perfusion. Extracellular fluid deficit can be caused by conditions such as burns, hemorrhage, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive diuresis.
Choice D: Interstitial fluid deficit is incorrect because it is a condition where the fluid in the spaces between the cells is below the normal range. This can cause edema, impaired wound healing, and increased risk of infection. Interstitial fluid deficit can be caused by conditions such as inflammation, infection, or lymphatic obstruction.

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.
