The client comes to the emergency department after having been in the sun for an extended period. The nurse also determines that the client is taking a diuretic. Heatstroke is suspected. Which of the following does the nurse observe for?
a. Diaphoresis
b. Confusion
c. Temperature of 36ºC
d. Decreased heart rate
B
Confusion is a symptom of heatstroke, along with delirium, nausea, muscle cramps, visual dis-turbances, giddiness, and even incontinence, as well as hot, dry skin.
The most important sign of heatstroke is hot, dry skin, not diaphoresis. Victims of heatstroke do not sweat because of severe electrolyte loss and hypothalamic malfunction.
A normal temperature is between 36ºC to 38ºC. With heatstroke, the client's body temperature may reach as high as 45ºC.
The heart rate is increased with heatstroke, not decreased.
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a. The neckline b. The hair ends c. The scalp d. The forehead
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