The nurse identifies several nursing problems for an older adult client with gastroenteritis who is experiencing fever, chills, anorexia, and diarrhea.
The client has a history of a stroke with left-sided hemiplegia and is dependent on care provided by the spouse. Which problem should the nurse determine has the highest priority?
Fluid volume deficit.
Impaired bed mobility.
Caregiver role strain.
Bowel incontinence.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
In a client with gastroenteritis experiencing fever, chills, anorexia, and diarrhea, fluid volume deficit is a major concern. Diarrhea and fever can both lead to significant fluid loss. If not addressed, fluid volume deficit can lead to serious complications such as hypovolemic shock.
Choice B rationale
While impaired bed mobility may be a concern due to the client’s history of stroke, it is not the highest priority in this situation. The immediate physiological needs related to the client’s gastroenteritis and potential fluid volume deficit should be addressed first.
Choice C rationale
Caregiver role strain may be a concern given that the client is dependent on care provided by the spouse. However, this psychosocial issue is not the highest priority when the client is experiencing acute physical symptoms that need immediate attention.
Choice D rationale
Bowel incontinence could be a concern for a client with gastroenteritis. However, the risk of fluid volume deficit due to diarrhea and fever is a more immediate concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While avoiding exposure to large crowds can help prevent infections, especially for patients with compromised immune systems, it is not the most crucial information for a patient with liver damage due to an overdose of acetaminophen.
Choice B rationale
While emotional support is important for patients dealing with health issues, calling a crisis hotline if feeling lonely is not the most crucial information for a patient with liver damage due to an overdose of acetaminophen.
Choice C rationale
This is the most crucial information for the patient. Acetaminophen is found in many over-the- counter medications, and further intake could exacerbate liver damage.
Choice D rationale
While a balanced diet is important for overall health, following a high carbohydrate, low fat, low protein diet is not the most crucial information for a patient with liver damage due to an overdose of acetaminophen.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While monitoring serum sodium levels is important in a client with DKA, it is not the most critical. Hyperglycemia can lead to a state of effective osmotic diuresis, which can cause sodium depletion.
Choice B rationale
Serum potassium levels are crucial to monitor in a client with DKA3. Despite total body potassium depletion, serum potassium levels may be high or normal upon presentation due to acidosis and insulin deficiency. However, with insulin treatment, potassium will shift back into the cells, potentially leading to life-threatening hypokalemia.
Choice C rationale
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) might be elevated due to dehydration, but it is not the most critical lab value to monitor in the management of DKA3.
Choice D rationale
Urine ketones are not as important to monitor as serum potassium in DKA. The presence of ketones in urine only confirms that the body is breaking down fat, not the severity of DKA3.
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