The nurse reviewing the laboratory results for an older client notes the specific gravity is below normal. The nurse's assessment findings include a temperature of 98.9?, heart rate 102 bpm, B/P 110/64, and respirations 20/min. Which condition does the nurse suspect the client is experiencing?
1. Dehydration
2. Hypernatremia
3. Glomerulonephritis
4. Hypokalemia
1. Dehydration
Explanation: 1. Older adults are less able to concentrate their urine, making them susceptible to dehydration. In addition, there is a deficit of the thirst response. The clinical assessment findings indicate the client is experiencing dehydration.
2. The aging kidney is less responsive to circulating ADH, producing urine that is poorly concentrated and rich in sodium.
3. A decrease of blood to the kidney occurs in conjunction with a decreased glomerular filtration rate as part of the aging process. Glomerulonephritis is an acute inflammation of the kidney.
4. The changes in the renal system predispose the older adult to hyperkalemia.
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