The nurse is continuing to care for the client. 

Exhibits

The nurse is reviewing the assessment findings.

For each assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Each finding may support more than one disease process.

Rationale for correct choices:

• A change in mood: Isotretinoin is associated with serious neuropsychiatric side effects, including depression, mood swings, and suicidal ideation. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable, and any mood changes should be reported immediately to prevent potential harm.
• Decreased night vision: Isotretinoin can cause visual disturbances, including impaired night vision, which may develop suddenly and without warning. This adverse effect can pose safety risks, especially when driving or navigating in low-light conditions, and requires prompt provider evaluation.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Dry mouth: Dry mucous membranes are a common and expected side effect of isotretinoin due to its drying effects on the skin and mucosa. While it may cause discomfort, it is not typically urgent or dangerous unless accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
• The development of dry eyes: Dry eyes are a frequent and expected adverse effect of isotretinoin. This symptom can usually be managed with artificial tears or lubricating eye drops and does not require immediate provider notification unless severe or worsening.
• Sunburn: Isotretinoin increases photosensitivity, making clients more prone to sunburn. However, this is a manageable and anticipated side effect. The client should be advised to use sunscreen and protective clothing rather than treat it as an emergency.
• Engagement in sexual activity: Sexual activity becomes relevant only if pregnancy is a risk, due to isotretinoin’s severe teratogenicity. Since the client currently tests negative on hCG and is not sexually active, it is not a priority concern unless that status changes.
• Worsening of acne: A temporary worsening of acne, known as an initial flare, is common in the first few weeks of isotretinoin therapy. It is not considered dangerous and does not warrant immediate discontinuation or urgent evaluation unless accompanied by severe systemic symptoms.

Rationale:

A. 0.45% sodium chloride: This is a hypotonic solution that helps lower serum sodium levels by diluting extracellular sodium and promoting cellular rehydration. It is commonly used to treat hypernatremia when there is no significant fluid volume overload.

B. 0.9% sodium chloride: This isotonic solution contains the same concentration of sodium as the blood. It does not correct hypernatremia and may worsen it if sodium levels are already elevated, especially in dehydrated clients.

C. Lactated Ringer's: While this is an isotonic fluid, it contains sodium and electrolytes that do not help reduce high serum sodium levels. It is more appropriate for fluid resuscitation than for treating hypernatremia.

D. 3% sodium chloride: This hypertonic solution is used for severe hyponatremia, not hypernatremia. Administering it to someone with elevated sodium levels would further increase sodium concentration and worsen the condition.