After a subarachnoid hemorrhage, the patient's laboratory results indicate a serum sodium level of less than 126 mEq/L. What is the nurse's most appropriate action?
A) Administer a bolus of normal saline as ordered.
B) Prepare the patient for thrombolytic therapy as ordered.
C) Facilitate testing for hypothalamic dysfunction.
D) Prepare to administer 3% NaCl by IV as ordered.
Ans: D
Feedback:
The patient may be experiencing syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) or cerebral salt-wasting syndrome. The treatment most often is the use of IV hypertonic 3% saline. A normal saline bolus would exacerbate the problem and there is no indication for tests of hypothalamic function or thrombolytic therapy.
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