The nurse is caring for a client with leukemia and notes that the client has poor skin turgor and flat neck and hand veins. The nurse suspects hypernatremia. Which sign/symptom would the nurse expect to note in this client if hypernatremia is present?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because polyuria is a sign of hyponatremia, not hypernatremia. Polyuria is the excessive production of urine, which can cause fluid loss and sodium dilution.

Choice B reason: This is correct because dry mucous membranes are a sign of hypernatremia. Dry mucous membranes are caused by dehydration, which can occur in hypernatremia due to fluid shifting from the intracellular to the extracellular space.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because diarrhea is a sign of hyponatremia, not hypernatremia. Diarrhea is the frequent and watery passage of stool, which can cause fluid and electrolyte loss.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because intense thirst is a sign of both hyponatremia and hypernatremia. Intense thirst is a result of the body's attempt to restore fluid balance and osmolarity.

Choice E reason: This is incorrect because vomiting is a sign of both hyponatremia and hypernatremia. Vomiting is a reflex action that expels the contents of the stomach, which can cause fluid and electrolyte loss or imbalance.

Choice A reason: Renal failure can cause hyperkalemia because the kidneys are unable to excrete excess potassium from the body. This can lead to high levels of potassium in the blood, which can affect the heart and muscles.

Choice B reason: Diarrhea can cause hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia, because it can lead to loss of potassium from the gastrointestinal tract. This can result in low levels of potassium in the blood, which can also affect the heart and muscles.

Choice C reason: Blood transfusion can cause hyperkalemia if the blood is old or hemolyzed, meaning that the red blood cells have broken down and released potassium into the plasma. This can increase the potassium levels in the recipient's blood.

Choice D reason: Diaphoresis, or sweating, can cause hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia, because it can lead to loss of potassium from the skin. This can also lower the potassium levels in the blood.