The nurse is performing a focused interview with an elderly client. The client says, "My mouth is always so dry. Sometimes, I feel like my tongue has grooves in it."

Question

The nurse inspects the client's tongue and discovers that it is red and dry with the presence of furrows. Based on the client's most likely condition, the nurse expects to learn which of the following? Standard Text: Select all that apply. 1. Serum glucose level is 232 mg/dL.
2. White blood cells 32,000 mm3.
3. The client states, "I take Lasix every morning because I have some heart problems.".
4. The client states, "I have diabetes but I don't check my blood sugar levels as often as I should.".
5. Platelets 92,000 mm3.

Answer 1

1,3,4
Rationale 1: Serum glucose level is 232 mg/dL. A dry and red tongue with longitudinal furrows may indicate dehydration in the elderly especially in people taking diuretics or having elevated blood sugar levels. This client's serum glucose level is elevated.
Rationale 2: White blood cells 32,000 mm3. The client's white blood cell count is elevated. This is an unexpected finding. This indicates that the client has an infection. A dry and red tongue with longitudinal furrows may indicate dehydration in the elderly especially in people taking diuretics or having elevated blood sugar levels.
Rationale 3: The client states, "I take Lasix every morning because I have some heart problems.". A dry and red tongue with longitudinal furrows may indicate dehydration in the elderly especially in people taking diuretics or having elevated blood sugar levels. The client takes a diuretic each day.
Rationale 4: The client states, "I have diabetes but I don't check my blood sugar levels as often as I should.". The client has diabetes but admittedly does not monitor serum glucose levels as frequently as recommended.
Rationale 5: Platelets 92,000 mm3. The client's platelet level is decreased. This is an unexpected finding. A dry and red tongue with longitudinal furrows may indicate dehydration in the elderly especially in people taking diuretics or having elevated blood sugar levels.