An older patient comes into the clinic complaining of watery diarrhea for several days with abdominal and muscle cramping. The nurse realizes that this patient is demonstrating which imbalance?
1. hypernatremia
2. hyponatremia
3. fluid volume excess
4. hyperkalemia
Correct Answer: 2
This elderly patient has watery diarrhea, which contributes to the loss of sodium. The abdominal and muscle cramps are manifestations of a low serum sodium level. Hypernatremia is associated with fluid retention and overload. Fluid volume excess is associated with hypernatremia. Hyperkalemia is associated with cardiac dysrhythmias.
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