A client is receiving a bowel evacuant in preparation for a colonoscopy. The client tells the nurse that he has been "going to the bathroom about every 30 to 45 minutes" since he started taking the drug and his stools are "like water."

Question

He reports that he is thirsty and his mouth feels dry. Which nursing diagnosis would the nurse most likely identify?

A) Risk for Infection
B) Risk for Injury
C) Risk for Imbalanced Fluid Volume
D) Deficient Knowledge

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
The client's report of frequent stools, which is a result of the drug therapy, along with complaints of feeling thirsty and dry mouth suggest the nursing diagnosis of Risk for Imbalanced Fluid Volume due to the large losses of fluid from the body from the drug. There is no evidence to support a risk for infection or deficient knowledge. Risk for Injury would be appropriate if the client was experiencing drowsiness or dizziness in conjunction with the fluid losses.