A patient presents to the emergency department with mixed psychiatric symptoms. The admission nurse suspects the symptoms may be the result of a medical problem. Lab results show elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine
What is the nurse's next best action?
a. Report the findings to the health care provider.
b. Assess the patient for a history of renal problems.
c. Assess the patient's family history for cardiac problems.
d. Arrange for the patient's hospitalization on the psychiatric unit.
ANS: B
Elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine suggest renal problems. Renal dysfunction can often imitate psychiatric disorders. The nurse should further assess the patient's history for renal problems and then share the findings with the health care provider.
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