A patient has a low sodium level but normal blood osmolarity. What does the nurse understand about this condition?
a. The two values are not related.
b. The patient is overhydrated.
c. The patient has pseudohyponatremia.
d. The patient has end-stage kidney disease.
C
Pseudohyponatremia is a condition in which the serum sodium is low, but osmolarity remains normal. The patient is not overhydrated nor does he or she have end-stage renal disease.
You might also like to view...
The patient has been diagnosed with severely compromised immune function. What nursing intervention is most important?
A) Antibiotic therapy B) Adequate protein C) Coughing and deep breathing D) Restricted visits from family
In reviewing the medical record shown in the accompanying figure for a patient admitted with acute pancreatitis, the nurse sees that the patient has a positive Cullen's sign. Indicate the area where the nurse will assess for this change
a. 1 b. 2 c. 3 d. 4
A nurse is caring for a pregnant client in the labor unit who suddenly experiences spontaneous rupture of the membranes. On inspecting the amniotic fluid, the nurse notes that it is clear, with creamy white flecks. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take based on this finding?
A. Document the findings. B. Check the client's temperature. C. Report the findings to the nurse-midwife. D. Obtain a sample of the amniotic fluid for laboratory analysis.
The nurse observes that the insertion site of an IV catheter looks pale and puffy and the area feels cool to the touch. The initial action for the nurse should be to:
a. discontinue the infusion and start a new IV site. b. apply warm compresses to the site. c.monitor the patients temperature every 4 hours. d. call the physician and report these findings.