An adult weighing 88 kg is brought to the emergency department after sustaining a thermal injury.

Burns are partial and full thickness over 38 According to the Parkland formula, what would this client's fluid requirements be for the first 24 hours after injury?

Accurate neurologic assessment in suspected stroke requires systematic comparison to identify focal deficits. Applying knowledge of neuroanatomy and lateralization of brain function is essential to differentiate between localized ischemic events and generalized systemic issues, ensuring the correct vascular territory is identified.

Choice A rationale

Rapid assessments may lead to overlooking subtle focal neurologic deficits or sensory changes. Precision is required to localize the brain lesion accurately. While time is critical in stroke, haste must not compromise the integrity and detail of the examination.

Choice B rationale

The supine position may increase intracranial pressure or compromise the airway in a stroke patient with decreased gag reflexes. Assessing certain reflexes and motor strength often requires varying the head of the bed to at least 30 degrees for safety.

Choice C rationale

Symmetry is the hallmark of neurologic health. Comparing left and right sides allows the nurse to identify unilateral weakness, sensory loss, or reflex changes characteristic of stroke. This lateralization helps distinguish focal neurological deficits from global brain dysfunction.

Choice D rationale

Anxiolytics can depress the central nervous system, altering the level of consciousness and pupillary responses. This medication masks the client's true neurologic status, making it impossible to obtain a baseline or detect subtle clinical changes or deterioration.

Hyperkalemia management involves identifying medications that facilitate the removal of potassium from the body. Understanding the mechanism of action of various renal and GI medications is necessary. This prevents cardiac arrest by lowering potassium toward the 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L range.

Choice A rationale

This medication is a cation exchange resin that works in the intestine. It exchanges sodium ions for potassium ions, allowing the potassium to be excreted through the feces. It is specifically indicated for treating high serum potassium levels.

Choice B rationale

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative primarily used to reduce serum ammonia levels in clients with hepatic encephalopathy. It promotes the excretion of ammonia through the stool but has no significant effect on lowering serum potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

This medication is an erythropoiesis stimulating agent used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease. It stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow but does not influence electrolyte levels or treat acute hyperkalemia.

Choice D rationale

Sevelamer is a phosphate binder used to manage hyperphosphatemia in clients with chronic kidney disease. It prevents the absorption of dietary phosphorus in the gut but does not have a mechanism to lower serum potassium concentrations.