The nurse is caring for a client being treated for fluid volume excess. Which assessment finding indicates that treatment has been effective?
Respiratory rate 24/min
Blood pressure 138/86 mm Hg
Total urinary output 700 mL in 24 hours
Weight loss of 4 lb in 24 hours
The Correct Answer is D
A. Respiratory rate 24/min: A respiratory rate of 24/min indicates tachypnea, which can be a sign of ongoing fluid volume excess or other complications. This does not show effective treatment.
B. Blood pressure 138/86 mm Hg: While this blood pressure is within the higher range of normal, it does not specifically indicate effective treatment of fluid volume excess. Blood pressure alone is not a reliable indicator of fluid status.
C. Total urinary output 700 mL in 24 hours: A urinary output of 700 mL in 24 hours is below the normal range (typically 800-2000 mL per day) and suggests that the fluid volume excess has not been effectively treated. Adequate urinary output is a key indicator of effective fluid management.
D. Weight loss of 4 lb in 24 hours: A weight loss of 4 lb in 24 hours is a clear indicator that the client has lost excess fluid, which is the desired outcome in treating fluid volume excess. This demonstrates that the treatment has been effective in reducing fluid retention
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Tell the client he can no longer have any more pain medication: This is not appropriate. The client’s severe pain needs to be managed, but the current vital signs suggest a need for careful evaluation before administration.
B. Notify the prescribing physician: This is the correct choice. The client's blood pressure and respiratory rate are significantly low, which could be exacerbated by morphine. The physician needs to be informed to reassess pain management and possibly adjust the treatment.
C. Administer half the dose of morphine, 2 mg IV: Given the client's low blood pressure and respiratory rate, any morphine administration could worsen these issues. Adjusting the dose without physician guidance is not appropriate.
D. Administer 4 mg of morphine IV as ordered: Administering the full dose without addressing the client’s low blood pressure and respiratory rate could lead to severe complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Capillary refill and depth of peripheral edema: While these assessments are important for evaluating peripheral circulation and fluid status, they are not as immediately critical given the client's new onset of confusion and respiratory symptoms.
B. Abdominal sounds and obtain a BNP level: Assessing abdominal sounds and BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide) levels is useful for diagnosing heart failure exacerbations but is secondary to addressing the client's acute confusion and potential electrolyte imbalances.
C. Neurological status and obtain electrolyte levels: This is the correct choice. New onset confusion can be indicative of electrolyte imbalances or acute exacerbations related to heart failure. Monitoring neurological status and electrolyte levels is crucial to address potential causes of confusion and ensure proper treatment.
D. Skin turgor and measure intake & output (I&O): While skin turgor and I&O are relevant for assessing fluid status, the priority should be addressing the acute change in mental status and potential underlying causes such as electrolyte imbalances.
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