The home health nurse visits a client who has a serum sodium level of 123 me/L (123 mmol/L). To explore possible etiologist for this value, what question should the nurse ask the client?
"Do you drink milk or eat dairy products at each meal?"
"How much water and ice chips do you have each day?"
"What amount of your daily meals contains fresh vegetables?"
"How frequently do you eat processed or canned foods?"
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Asking about the consumption of milk or dairy products is not directly related to the client's serum sodium level. Dairy intake does not typically cause significant changes in sodium levels. Therefore, this question would not help in identifying the cause of the hyponatremia.
Choice B reason: This question is most relevant because excessive water or ice chip intake can lead to dilutional hyponatremia. Ingestion of large amounts of water can dilute the sodium concentration in the blood, resulting in a low serum sodium level. Identifying excessive fluid intake is critical in determining if this is the cause of the client's hyponatremia.
Choice C reason: Inquiring about the number of fresh vegetables in the client's diet is more related to overall nutrition rather than directly linked to sodium levels. While vegetables can be part of a healthy diet, this question would not specifically address the cause of a low serum sodium level.
Choice D reason: The frequency of consuming processed or canned foods, which are typically high in sodium, would generally be expected to increase serum sodium levels rather than decrease them. Therefore, this question does not directly address the issue of a low sodium level.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Lethargy and lack of appetite are symptoms that might indicate hypothyroidism or an insufficient dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms are not typically associated with a dosage that is too high.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia and constipation are also indicative of hypothyroidism or an inadequate dosage of levothyroxine. These symptoms suggest a need for a higher dosage rather than indicating that the current dosage is too high.
Choice C reason: Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin can be associated with electrolyte imbalances or dehydration, but they are not specific symptoms of an excessive dosage of levothyroxine.
Choice D reason: Palpitations and shortness of breath are signs of hyperthyroidism, which can occur if the dosage of levothyroxine is too high. These symptoms indicate that the client's metabolism is excessively stimulated, leading to cardiovascular strain and respiratory distress. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor these symptoms and adjust the medication dosage accordingly.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Testing the urine for the presence of haematuria is important for diagnosing a urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney stones, but it is not the most immediate intervention. Haematuria indicates blood in the urine, but assessing the client's vital signs is more urgent to determine if there is an acute issue that requires immediate attention.
Choice B reason: Measuring her temperature and heart rate is the most critical first step. These vital signs can provide immediate information about the client's overall condition and help identify potential systemic infection (fever) or hemodynamic instability (tachycardia). This information is essential for prioritizing further interventions and determining the urgency of the situation.
Choice C reason: Evaluating the urine for a strong Odor can help identify the presence of a UTI, but it is not as immediately critical as assessing the client's vital signs. Changes in urine Odor can support a diagnosis, but they do not provide the urgent information needed to assess the client's immediate health status.
Choice D reason: Palpating the right flank for tenderness is important for assessing kidney involvement, such as in cases of pyelonephritis (kidney infection). However, this physical examination should follow the assessment of vital signs to ensure the client is stable and not in immediate danger.
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