An older adult client's skin feels warm and the client has a temperature of 101.2° F (38.4° C). The nurse further assesses that the client has a reddened tongue, dry mucous membranes, and inelastic skin turgor. Which serum laboratory value should the nurse monitor most closely?

Protein.

Hemoglobin.

White blood cell count

Sodium.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   While protein levels are important in assessing overall nutritional status and can indicate conditions like malnutrition or liver disease, they are not the primary focus in the context of fever, dry mucous membranes, and skin turgor changes.
B.   Hemoglobin levels are crucial for assessing anemia and overall oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Although dehydration can potentially concentrate hemoglobin levels, it is not the primary laboratory value to monitor in the context of the acute symptoms
C.   The white blood cell count is important for diagnosing infections and understanding the body's response to illness. However, in this scenario, the primary concern is dehydration, which is not directly measured by WBC count. While an elevated WBC could indicate an infection contributing to the fever, it is not the primary laboratory value to monitor for fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
D.   Sodium is a key electrolyte that can be significantly affected by dehydration. Dry mucous membranes, inelastic skin turgor, and a fever suggest potential fluid loss and dehydration, which can lead to imbalances in sodium levels. Monitoring sodium levels is crucial because dehydration often results in elevated sodium concentrations (hypernatremia), which can have serious implications for the client’s health.

Nursing Test Bank

Test Bank #1: RN Pharmacology Exams Test Bank #2: RN Medical-Surgical Exams Test Bank #3: RN Fundamentals Exams Test Bank #4: RN Maternal-Newborn Exams Test Bank #5: RN Anatomy and Physiology Exams Test Bank #6: RN Obstetrics and Pediatrics Exams Test Bank #7: RN Fluid and Electrolytes Exams Test Bank #9: RN Adult Health Test Bank #10: RN Dosage Calculation Test Bank #11: RN Community Health Exams Test Bank #12: RN Psychology Exams Test Bank #13: RN Nursing Care Of Children Test Bank #14: RN Foundations of Nursing Exams

Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Exam #1: RN Comprehensive predictor 2023 proctored exam Exam #2: Ati rn vati comprehensive predictor proctored exam Exam #3: Ati Rn Comprehensive Predictor Proctored Exam 2023 Exam #4: Rn Comprehensive Predictor 2023 Proctored Exam - St. Joseph Exam #5: RN Comprehensive Predictor Proctored Exam (National U CA San Diego) Exam #6: Ati rn comprehensive predictor 2023 retake proctored exam Exam #7: RN Hesi Exit Proctored Exam Exam #8: Hesi RN Exit proctored exam Exam #9: Hesi rn exit proctored exam Exam #10: Hesi Rn compass exit B proctored exam

Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. While over-the-counter laxatives can be effective for relieving constipation, they are typically recommended for short-term use or when dietary and lifestyle changes have not resolved the issue. Regular or frequent use of laxatives can lead to dependence and potentially worsen constipation over time.
B. Increasing water intake is a highly effective way to address constipation. Adequate hydration helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Drinking six to eight large glasses of water daily is a good strategy to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
C. Over-the-counter enemas can provide immediate relief from constipation but should not be used frequently. Enemas are more invasive and can cause discomfort or lead to dependency if used too often. They are typically recommended for occasional use rather than as a first-line solution for chronic constipation.
D. Regular physical activity, such as walking, can help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation. Exercise promotes gut motility and can be an effective part of a comprehensive approach to managing constipation.

A. Use background music to promote relaxation. B. Turn on overhead lights while reviewing instructions. C. Stand behind the client to avoid intimidation. D. Provide handouts written at a 12th grade reading level.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. While music can be relaxing, it may also be distracting and make it difficult for the client to focus on the instructions.
B. Bright overhead lights can be uncomfortable and may even cause strain on the eyes. It's generally better to use soft, natural lighting when reviewing instructions.
C. Standing behind the client can make them feel intimidated or uncomfortable, especially if they are already feeling anxious or overwhelmed. It's better to stand in front of the client and maintain eye contact to show that you are engaged and attentive.
D. Older adults may have difficulty understanding written information that is too complex. Providing handouts written at a 12th grade reading level ensures that the client can easily comprehend the instructions and follow them at home.

View Question and Answer

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

An older adult client's skin feels warm and the client has a temperature of 101.2° F (38.4° C). The nurse further assesses that the client has a reddened tongue, dry mucous membranes, and inelastic skin turgor. Which serum laboratory value should the nurse monitor most closely?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client in the outpatient clinic reports experiencing hard, infrequent stools. Which instruction should the nurse provide this client?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

An older client with colorectal carcinoma receives a colostomy following a bowel resection and the nurse is reviewing written instructions about colostomy care that the client will take home after discharge. Which action should the nurse include when reviewing the instructions with the client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A male client tells the nurse that he is taking large doses of a fish oil supplement to lower his triglyceride level. Which action should the nurse take?

The nurse is performing a functional assessment for a client requiring nursing home care. During the client interview, which action should the nurse implement?

The nurse assesses an adult client with a partial rebreather mask and notes that the oxygen reservoir bag does not deflate completely during inspiration and the client's respiratory rate is 14 breaths/minute. Which action should the nurse implement?

A client's spouse has just learned of the client's terminal illness. The spouse is sitting in the corner of the client's room crying, and says to the nurse, "I feel as if I'm already so alone." Which action should the nurse take first?

An older female client residing at a long-term care facility receives an enteral tube feeding bolus via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube 6 times daily. Which interventions should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.

Which explanation is best for the nurse to provide a client who asks the purpose of using the log rolling technique for turning?

The nurse observes that a client on a clear liquid diet has a cup of coffee on the breakfast tray. Which action should the nurse implement?

The client is receiving a liter of 0.9% sodium chloride with potassium chloride (KCI) 30 mEq IV to infuse over 4 hours. Which nursing action has the highest priority for this client?