An older adult has approximately six loose stools a day and is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis
In addition to being disoriented and weak, the patient has the following laboratory test results:
Hct 56% (normal 40% to 51%)
BUN 32 mg/dL (normal 6 mg/dL to 20 mg/dL)
Which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate for this patient?
a. Excess fluid volume
b. Deficient fluid volume
c. Impaired skin integrity
d. Risk for injury
ANS: B
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and hematocrit (Hct) show concentration due to Deficient fluid volume. Excess fluid volume would be associated with low BUN and Hct. Impaired skin integrity and Risk for injury are possible, but they are not indicated by the data provided.
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