What is the normal range of serum sodium in adults?
120 to 140 mEq/L
135 to 145 mEq/L
150 to 160 mEq/L
165 to 175 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because 120 to 140 mEq/L is a low range for serum sodium, which indicates hyponatremia. Hyponatremia can cause confusion, lethargy, seizures, and coma.
Choice B reason: This is correct because 135 to 145 mEq/L is the normal range of serum sodium in adults. Sodium is essential for fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because 150 to 160 mEq/L is a high range for serum sodium, which indicates hypernatremia. Hypernatremia can cause thirst, dry mouth, agitation, and convulsions.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because 165 to 175 mEq/L is a very high range for serum sodium, which indicates severe hypernatremia. Severe hypernatremia can cause irreversible brain damage and death.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the adrenal gland is not involved in the thirst mechanism. The adrenal gland is responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which regulate stress response, blood pressure, and metabolism.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because the cerebral cortex is not involved in the thirst mechanism. The cerebral cortex is the outer layer of the brain that is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as memory, language, and reasoning.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the pituitary gland is not directly involved in the thirst mechanism. The pituitary gland is a small gland at the base of the brain that produces hormones that control growth, reproduction, and metabolism. However, the pituitary gland does secrete antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which is regulated by the hypothalamus and affects water balance in the body.
Choice D reason: This is correct because the hypothalamus is the location of the thirst mechanism. The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that regulates many bodily functions such as temperature, appetite, sleep, and emotions. The hypothalamus also monitors the blood osmolarity and triggers the sensation of thirst when the blood is too concentrated.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Moist skin is not a sign of dehydration, but rather a sign of adequate hydration or sweating. Dehydration can cause dry skin, mucous membranes, and lips.
Choice B reason: Dark-colored urine is a sign of dehydration, as it indicates a high concentration of waste products and a low volume of water in the urine. Dehydration can cause the kidneys to conserve water and produce less urine.
Choice C reason: High blood pressure is not a sign of dehydration, but rather a sign of fluid overload or other factors such as stress, pain, or medication. Dehydration can cause low blood pressure, as it reduces the blood volume and the cardiac output.
Choice D reason: Distended neck veins are not a sign of dehydration, but rather a sign of fluid overload or right-sided heart failure. Dehydration can cause flat neck veins, as it reduces the venous return and the central venous pressure.
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