Which of the information below obtained when caring for a patient who has been admited for evaluation of diabetes insipidus will be of greatest concern to the nurse?
The patient has a urine output of 800 ml/hr.
The patient is confused and lethargic.
The patient's urine specific gravity is 1.003.
The patient had a recent head injury.
The Correct Answer is B
Diabetes insipidus is a condition where the body is not able to regulate water balance properly, leading to excessive urine output and dehydration. The patient's urine output of 800 ml/hr (option A) and low urine specific gravity of 1.003 (option C) is consistent with diabetes insipidus and requires monitoring, but they are not as immediately concerning as the patient's confusion and lethargy.
Confusion and lethargy may indicate severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or even brain swelling (if the patient had a recent head injury, as mentioned in option D). These symptoms require immediate attention to prevent further complications and ensure the patient's safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
One of the hallmarks of adrenal insufficiency is dehydration and decreased urinary output, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hyperkalemia and hyponatremia. As treatment begins to take effect, the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance should improve, leading to an increase in urinary output. Acute adrenal insufficiency, also known as the Addisonian crisis, is a life-threatening condition caused by a sudden decrease in cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Treatment usually involves the administration of intravenous glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids to replace the deficient hormones.
Decreasing serum sodium (a) and decreasing blood glucose (b) are not signs of improvement but rather indicative of continued adrenal insufficiency. Decreasing serum potassium (c) is also not a sign of improvement as it could indicate that the patient is developing hyperkalemia, which is a potential complication of adrenal crisis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Counting sponges, needles, and surgical instruments is an intraoperative activity that is specific to the circulating function of the perioperative nurse. The nurse is responsible for maintaining an accurate count of all surgical items to prevent leaving any foreign objects inside the patient after the surgery. This is a crucial task to ensure patient safety and prevent any potential complications that may arise from such errors.
Option a. admitting, identifying, and assessing the patient, is a preoperative function that is usually performed by the preoperative nurse.
Option c. passing instruments to the surgeon and assistants, is a scrub nurse function that requires knowledge of the surgical procedure and a sterile technique.
Option d. preparing the instrument table and sterile equipment is also a scrub nurse function that requires expertise in sterile technique, knowledge of surgical procedures, and the ability to maintain a sterile environment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today