NCLEX Practice Exam for Fluids, Electrolytes & Homeostasis 1

In hypomagnesemia, a patient on digoxin is likely to develop digitalis toxicity. Neither A nor C has toxicity as a side effect. CAPD is not a medication.

Eclampsia is associated with increased levels of serum chloride.

The client’s potassium level is elevated; therefore, Kayexalate would be ordered to help reduce the potassium level. Kayexalate is a cation-exchange resin, which can be given orally, by nasogastric tube, or by retention enema. Potassium is drawn from the bowel and excreted through the feces. Because the client’s potassium level is already elevated, potassium supplements would not be given. Neither calcium gluconate nor sodium tablets would address the client’s elevated potassium level.

Water gain, diuretic therapy, and diaphoresis are etiologies of hyponatremia.

Normal venous blood pH ranges from 7.31 to 7.41. Normal arterial blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45.

Potassium must be well diluted and given slowly because rapid administration will cause cardiac arrest.

Diuretics such as furosemide may deplete serum potassium, leading to hypokalemia. When the client is also taking digoxin, the subsequent hypokalemia may potentiate the action of digoxin, placing the client at risk for digoxin toxicity. Diuretic therapy may lead to the loss of other electrolytes such as sodium, but the loss of potassium in association with digoxin therapy is most important. Hypocalcemia is usually associated with inadequate vitamin D intake or synthesis, renal failure, or use of drugs, such as aminoglycosides and corticosteroids. Hypomagnesemia generally is associated with poor nutrition, alcoholism, and excessive GI or renal losses, not diuretic therapy.

Bounding pulse is a sign of fluid overload as more volume in the vessels causes a stronger sensation against the blood vessel walls. Flat neck veins and vesicular breath sounds are normal findings. Poor skin turgor is consistent with dehydration.

The client who is hyperventilating and subsequently develops respiratory alkalosis is losing too much carbon dioxide. Measures that result in the retention of carbon dioxide are needed. Encourage slow, deep breathing to retain carbon dioxide and reverse respiratory alkalosis. Administering low-flow oxygen therapy is appropriate for chronic respiratory acidosis. Administering sodium bicarbonate is appropriate for treating metabolic acidosis, and administering sodium chloride is appropriate for metabolic alkalosis.

Arterial baroreceptors and stretch receptors help maintain fluid balance by increasing urine output in response to a rise in arterial pressure.

Administration of phosphate binders (amphogel and basagel) will reduce the serum phosphate levels.

After discharge, the client is responsible for his own care and health maintenance management. Discharge includes assessing the home environment for determining the client’s ability to maintain his health at home.

In a client with hypocalcemia, a positive Trousseau’s sign refers to carpopedal spasm that develops usually within 2 to 5 minutes after applying and inflating a blood pressure cuff to about 20 mm Hg higher than systolic pressure on the upper arm. This spasm occurs as the blood supply to the ulnar nerve is obstructed. Chvostek’s sign refers to twitching of the facial nerve when tapping below the earlobe. Paresthesia refers to the numbness or tingling. Tetany is a clinical manifestation of hypocalcemia denoted by tingling in the tips of the fingers around the mouth, and muscle spasms in the extremities and face.

Hyporeflexia is a symptom of hypokalemia

For the client with asthma and infection, oxygenation is the priority. Maintaining adequate oxygenation reduces the risk of physiologic injury from cellular hypoxia, which is the leading cause of cell death. A fluid volume deficit resulting from fever and diaphoresis, not excess, is more likely for this client. No information regarding pain is provided in this scenario. Teaching about infection control is not appropriate at this time but would be appropriate before discharge.

Respiratory regulation of acid-base balance involves the elimination or retention of carbon dioxide.

The ABG results indicate respiratory acidosis requiring improved ventilation and increased oxygen to the lungs. Coughing and deep breathing can accomplish this. The nurse would administer high oxygen levels because the client does not have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Breathing into a paper bag is appropriate for a client hyperventilating and experiencing respiratory alkalosis. Some action is necessary, because the ABG results are not within normal limits.

Alkalosis is indicated by a pH above 7.45.

Keeping the linens dry and wrinkle-free aids in preventing moisture and pressure from interfering with adequate blood supply to the tissues, helping to maintain skin integrity. Using a foot board is appropriate for maintaining normal body function position. Monitoring intake and output aids in assessing and maintaining bladder function.. Coughing and deep breathing help promote gas exchange.

Infection impairs wound healing. Adequate blood supply is essential for healing. If inadequate, healing is slowed. Nutritional needs, including protein and caloric needs, increase for all clients undergoing cellular repair because adequate protein and caloric intake is essential to optimal cellular repair. Elderly clients may have decreased blood flow to the skin, organ atrophy and diminished function, and altered immunity. These conditions slow cellular repair and increase the risk of infection.

Instituting seizure precaution is an appropriate intervention, because the client with hypomagnesemia is at risk for seizures. Hypophosphatemia may produce changes in granulocytes, which would require the nurse to instruct the client about measures to prevent infection. Avoiding the use of a tight tourniquet when drawing blood helps prevent pseudohyperkalemia. Early ambulation is recommended to reduce calcium loss from bones during hospitalization.

Kegel exercises, which help strengthen the muscles in the perineal area, are used to maintain urinary continence. To perform these exercises, the client tightens pelvic floor muscles for 4 seconds 10 times at least 20 times each day, stopping and starting the urinary flow. Inserting an indwelling Foley catheter increases the risk for infection and should be avoided. The nurse should encourage the client to develop a toileting schedule based on normal urinary habits. However, suggesting bathroom use every 8 hours may be too long an interval to wait. Pads or diapers should be used only as a resort.

For the client with fluid volume deficit, assessing the client’s urine output (using a urometer if necessary) is essential to ensure an output of at least 30 ml/hour. The client should be weighed daily, not weekly, and at same time each day, usually in the morning. Monitoring ABGs is not necessary for this client. Rather, serum electrolyte levels would most likely be evaluated. The client also would have an I.V. rate at least 75 ml/hour, if not higher, to correct the fluid volume deficit.

Cardiac rate and rhythm are the most important physical assessment parameter to measure. Skin turgor, intake and output are physical assessment parameters a nurse would consider when assessing fluid and electrolyte imbalance, but choice d is the most important.

Adequate fluids and fiber in the diet are key to preventing constipation. Having the client fill a 2-L bottle with water every night and drink it the next day is one method for ensuring the client receives at least 2,000 ml of water daily. The client also should be instructed to drink any other fluids throughout the day. High fiber or roughage foods are encouraged. Laxatives should not be used routinely for bowel elimination. They should be used only as a last resort, because clients may become dependent on them. A regular bowel evacuation schedule should be established.

Knowledge that redness, drainage, or fever — signs of infection associated with cellular injury — require reporting indicates that the client has understood the nurse’s discharge teaching. Follow-up checkups should be encouraged with an emphasis of antibiotic compliance even if the client feels better. There are usually activity limitations after cellular injury.

Urinary calculi may occur with hypercalcemia. Shortened, not prolonged QRS complex would be seen in hypercalcemia. Tetany and petechiae are signs of hypocalcemia.

Anti-inflammatory agents help reduce edema and relieve pressure on nerve endings, subsequently reducing pain. Elevating the injured area increases venous return to the heart. Maintaining clean, dry skin aids in preventing skin breakdown. Cool packs, not warm packs, should be used initially to cause vasoconstriction and reduce edema.

Hypermagnesemia is manifested by hot, flushed skin and diaphoresis. The client also may exhibit hypotension, lethargy, drowsiness, and absent deep tendon reflexes. Muscle pain and acute rhabdomyolysis are indicative of hypophosphatemia. Soft-tissue calcification and hyperreflexia are indicative of hyperphosphatemia. Increased respiratory rate and depth are associated with metabolic acidosis.

Correct body alignment, preventing footdrop, and range-of-motion exercises will help prevent contractures. Clustering activities will help promote adequate rest. Monitoring intake and output and weighing the client will help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Normal serum sodium level ranges from 136 to 145 mEq/L.

Hypotonic fluid volume excess (FVE) involves an increase in water volume without an increase in sodium concentration. Increased sodium intake is part of the management of this condition.

Normal serum concentrations of chloride range from 95 to 108 mEq/L.

The fluid intake includes 8 oz (240 ml) of apple juice, 850 ml of water, 2 cups (480 ml) of beef broth, and 900 ml of I.V. fluid for a total of 2,470 ml intake for the shift.

Hypernatremia refers to elevated serum sodium levels, usually above 145 mEq/L. Typically, the client exhibits tented skin turgor and thirst in conjunction with dry, sticky mucous membranes, lethargy, and restlessness. Muscle weakness and paresthesia are associated with hypokalemia; fruity breath and Kussmaul’s respirations are associated with diabetic ketoacidosis. Muscle twitching and tetany may be seen with hypercalcemia or hyperphosphatemia.

Perspiration and the fluid lost via the lungs are termed insensible losses; normally, insensible losses equal about 1000 cc/day.

Sodium is the electrolyte whose level is the primary determinant of the extracellular fluid concentration. Sodium a cation (e.g., positively charged ion), is the major electrolyte in extracellular fluid. Chloride, an anion (e.g., negatively charged ion), is also present in extracellular fluid, but to a lesser extent. Potassium (a cation) and phosphate (an anion) are the major electrolytes in the intracellular fluid.

Clients with renal disease are predisposed to hyperkalemia and should avoid foods high in potassium. Clients receiving diuretics, with ileostomies, or with metabolic acidosis may be hypokalemic and should be encouraged to eat foods high in potassium.

Chloride is a major anion found in the extracellular fluid. A compound occurs when two ions are bound together. Chloride is an ion, but this choice is too general. HCO3 is a cation.

When hyponatremia is severe, hypertonic solutions may be used but should be infused with caution due to the potential for development of CHF. In SIADH, isotonic and hypotonic solutions are not indicated, because urine output is minimal, so water is retained. this water retention dilutes serum sodium levels, making the patient hyponatremic and necessitating administration of hypertonic solutions to balance sodium and water. Normotonic solutions do not exist.

When intervening with a client complaining of pain, the nurse must always determine if the pain is expected pain or a complication that requires immediate nursing intervention. This must be done before administering the medication. Guided imagery should be used along with, not instead of, administration of pain medication. The nurse should medicate the client and not discourage medication.

Isotonic FVD involves an equal decrease in solute concentration and water volume.

The client with hypokalemia needs to increase the intake of foods high in potassium. Orange juice and bananas are high in potassium, along with raisins, apricots, avocados, beans, and potatoes. Whole grains and nuts would be encouraged for the client with hypomagnesemia; milk products and green, leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium for the client with hypocalcemia. Pork products and canned vegetables are high in sodium and are encouraged for the client with hyponatremia.

In diffusion, the solute moves from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration, creating osmotic pressure. Osmotic pressure is related to the process of osmosis. Filtration is created by hydrostatic pressure. Capillary dynamics are related to fluid exchange at the intravascular and interstitial levels.

Oral potassium supplements are known to irritate gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa and should be diluted.

Metastatic bone lesions are associated with hypercalcemia due to accelerated bone metabolism and release of calcium into the serum. Renal failure, inadequate calcium intake, and vitamin D deficiency may cause hypocalcemia.

For patient with hyperthermia, reducing the room temperature may help decrease the body temperature. Tepid baths, cool compresses, and cooling blanket may also be necessary. Antipyretics, and not antiemetics, are indicated to reduce fever. Oral or rectal temperature measurements are generally accepted and are more accurate than axillary measurements. Fluids should be encouraged, not restricted to compensate for insensible losses.

Handwashing remains the most effective procedure for controlling microorganisms and the incidence of nosocomial infections. Aseptic technique is essential with invasive procedures, including indwelling catheters. Masks, gowns, and gloves are necessary only when the likelihood of exposure to blood or body fluids is high. Spills of blood from clients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome should be cleaned with sodium hydrochloride.

The client’s assessment findings would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is dehydrated. Administering I.V. fluids is appropriate. Assessing sputum would be appropriate for a client with problems associated with impaired gas exchange or ineffective airway clearance. Monitoring albumin and protein levels is appropriate for clients experiencing inadequate nutrition. Clustering activities helps with energy conservation and promotes rest.

Aldosterone is secreted in response to fluid loss. Aldosterone causes sodium reabsorption and potassium elimination, further exacerbating hypokalemia.

Calcium gluconate is used for replacement in deficiency states. Calcitonin and loop diuretics are used to lower serum calcium.

Metabolic acidosis results from excessive absorption or retention of acid or excessive excretion of bicarbonate. A base is needed. Sodium bicarbonate is a base and is used to treat documented metabolic acidosis. Potassium, serum sodium determinations, and a bronchodilator would be inappropriate orders for this client.

Assessing dietary intake provides a foundation for the client’s usual practices and may help determine if the client is prone to constipation or diarrhea. Limited physical activity may contribute to constipation due to decreased peristalsis. Turning, coughing and deep breathing help promote gas exchange. Fluid intake should be increased to aid bowel elimination.

Arterial blood gases will indicate CO2 and O2 levels. This is an indication that the respiratory system is functioning. Respiratory rate can reveal data about other systems, such as the brain, making letter c a better choice. Pulse rate is not measure of respiratory status. Pulse oximetry yields oxygen saturation levels, which is not a measure of acid-base balance.

Renal failure can reduce magnesium excretion, leading to hypermagnesemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis, not insulin shock is a cause of hypermagnesemia. Hypoadrenalism, not hyperadrenalism is a cause of hypermagnesemia. Nausea and vomiting lead to hypomagnesemia.

Hyponatremia involves a decreased concentration of sodium in relation to fluid volume, so restricting fluid intake is indicated.

Turning the client to the right side relieves the pressure and promotes adequate blood supply to the left hip. A reddened area is never massaged, because this may increase the damage to the already reddened, damaged area. The health care provider does not need to be notified immediately. However, the health care provider should be informed of this finding the next time he is on the unit. Arranging for a pressure-relieving device is appropriate, but this is done after the client has been turned.

Weight loss of more than 0.50 lb. is considered to be fluid loss.

In a patient with hypermagnesemia, administration of calcium gluconate will antagonize the cardiac effects of magnesium. Although calcium gluconate will raise serum calcium levels, that is not the purpose of administration. Calcium gluconate does not lower calcium or magnesium levels.

A chronically elevated PCO2 level (above 50 mmHg) is associated with inadequate response of the respiratory center to plasma carbon dioxide. The major stimulus to breathing then becomes hypoxia (low PO2). High PCO2 and normal pH and HCO3 levels would not be the primary stimuli for breathing in this client.

Diuretics such as furosemide may deplete serum potassium, leading to hypokalemia. When the client is also taking digoxin, the subsequent hypokalemia may potentiate the action of digoxin, placing the client at risk for digoxin toxicity. Diuretic therapy may lead to the loss of other electrolytes such as sodium, but the loss of potassium in association with digoxin therapy is most important. Hypocalcemia is usually associated with inadequate vitamin D intake or synthesis, renal failure, or use of drugs, such as aminoglycosides and corticosteroids. Hypomagnesemia generally is associated with poor nutrition, alcoholism, and excessive GI or renal losses, not diuretic therapy.

Water gain, diuretic therapy, and diaphoresis are etiologies of hyponatremia.

The client with hypokalemia needs to increase the intake of foods high in potassium. Orange juice and bananas are high in potassium, along with raisins, apricots, avocados, beans, and potatoes. Whole grains and nuts would be encouraged for the client with hypomagnesemia; milk products and green, leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium for the client with hypocalcemia. Pork products and canned vegetables are high in sodium and are encouraged for the client with hyponatremia.

In hypomagnesemia, a patient on digoxin is likely to develop digitalis toxicity. Neither A nor C has toxicity as a side effect. CAPD is not a medication.

Bounding pulse is a sign of fluid overload as more volume in the vessels causes a stronger sensation against the blood vessel walls. Flat neck veins and vesicular breath sounds are normal findings. Poor skin turgor is consistent with dehydration.

The client’s assessment findings would lead the nurse to suspect that the client is dehydrated. Administering I.V. fluids is appropriate. Assessing sputum would be appropriate for a client with problems associated with impaired gas exchange or ineffective airway clearance. Monitoring albumin and protein levels is appropriate for clients experiencing inadequate nutrition. Clustering activities helps with energy conservation and promotes rest.

Adequate fluids and fiber in the diet are key to preventing constipation. Having the client fill a 2-L bottle with water every night and drink it the next day is one method for ensuring the client receives at least 2,000 ml of water daily. The client also should be instructed to drink any other fluids throughout the day. High fiber or roughage foods are encouraged. Laxatives should not be used routinely for bowel elimination. They should be used only as a last resort, because clients may become dependent on them. A regular bowel evacuation schedule should be established.

Clients with renal disease are predisposed to hyperkalemia and should avoid foods high in potassium. Clients receiving diuretics, with ileostomies, or with metabolic acidosis may be hypokalemic and should be encouraged to eat foods high in potassium.

Keeping the linens dry and wrinkle-free aids in preventing moisture and pressure from interfering with adequate blood supply to the tissues, helping to maintain skin integrity. Using a foot board is appropriate for maintaining normal body function position. Monitoring intake and output aids in assessing and maintaining bladder function.. Coughing and deep breathing help promote gas exchange.

Weight loss of more than 0.50 lb. is considered to be fluid loss.

Infection impairs wound healing. Adequate blood supply is essential for healing. If inadequate, healing is slowed. Nutritional needs, including protein and caloric needs, increase for all clients undergoing cellular repair because adequate protein and caloric intake is essential to optimal cellular repair. Elderly clients may have decreased blood flow to the skin, organ atrophy and diminished function, and altered immunity. These conditions slow cellular repair and increase the risk of infection.

When hyponatremia is severe, hypertonic solutions may be used but should be infused with caution due to the potential for development of CHF. In SIADH, isotonic and hypotonic solutions are not indicated, because urine output is minimal, so water is retained. this water retention dilutes serum sodium levels, making the patient hyponatremic and necessitating administration of hypertonic solutions to balance sodium and water. Normotonic solutions do not exist.

Instituting seizure precaution is an appropriate intervention, because the client with hypomagnesemia is at risk for seizures. Hypophosphatemia may produce changes in granulocytes, which would require the nurse to instruct the client about measures to prevent infection. Avoiding the use of a tight tourniquet when drawing blood helps prevent pseudohyperkalemia. Early ambulation is recommended to reduce calcium loss from bones during hospitalization.

In a patient with hypermagnesemia, administration of calcium gluconate will antagonize the cardiac effects of magnesium. Although calcium gluconate will raise serum calcium levels, that is not the purpose of administration. Calcium gluconate does not lower calcium or magnesium levels.

Hypotonic fluid volume excess (FVE) involves an increase in water volume without an increase in sodium concentration. Increased sodium intake is part of the management of this condition.

Kegel exercises, which help strengthen the muscles in the perineal area, are used to maintain urinary continence. To perform these exercises, the client tightens pelvic floor muscles for 4 seconds 10 times at least 20 times each day, stopping and starting the urinary flow. Inserting an indwelling Foley catheter increases the risk for infection and should be avoided. The nurse should encourage the client to develop a toileting schedule based on normal urinary habits. However, suggesting bathroom use every 8 hours may be too long an interval to wait. Pads or diapers should be used only as a resort.

For the client with asthma and infection, oxygenation is the priority. Maintaining adequate oxygenation reduces the risk of physiologic injury from cellular hypoxia, which is the leading cause of cell death. A fluid volume deficit resulting from fever and diaphoresis, not excess, is more likely for this client. No information regarding pain is provided in this scenario. Teaching about infection control is not appropriate at this time but would be appropriate before discharge.

Turning the client to the right side relieves the pressure and promotes adequate blood supply to the left hip. A reddened area is never massaged, because this may increase the damage to the already reddened, damaged area. The health care provider does not need to be notified immediately. However, the health care provider should be informed of this finding the next time he is on the unit. Arranging for a pressure-relieving device is appropriate, but this is done after the client has been turned.

Arterial baroreceptors and stretch receptors help maintain fluid balance by increasing urine output in response to a rise in arterial pressure.

When intervening with a client complaining of pain, the nurse must always determine if the pain is expected pain or a complication that requires immediate nursing intervention. This must be done before administering the medication. Guided imagery should be used along with, not instead of, administration of pain medication. The nurse should medicate the client and not discourage medication.

Administration of phosphate binders (amphogel and basagel) will reduce the serum phosphate levels.

A chronically elevated PCO2 level (above 50 mmHg) is associated with inadequate response of the respiratory center to plasma carbon dioxide. The major stimulus to breathing then becomes hypoxia (low PO2). High PCO2 and normal pH and HCO3 levels would not be the primary stimuli for breathing in this client.

Normal serum sodium level ranges from 136 to 145 mEq/L.

Respiratory regulation of acid-base balance involves the elimination or retention of carbon dioxide.

Correct body alignment, preventing footdrop, and range-of-motion exercises will help prevent contractures. Clustering activities will help promote adequate rest. Monitoring intake and output and weighing the client will help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

For the client with fluid volume deficit, assessing the client’s urine output (using a urometer if necessary) is essential to ensure an output of at least 30 ml/hour. The client should be weighed daily, not weekly, and at same time each day, usually in the morning. Monitoring ABGs is not necessary for this client. Rather, serum electrolyte levels would most likely be evaluated. The client also would have an I.V. rate at least 75 ml/hour, if not higher, to correct the fluid volume deficit.

Urinary calculi may occur with hypercalcemia. Shortened, not prolonged QRS complex would be seen in hypercalcemia. Tetany and petechiae are signs of hypocalcemia.

The fluid intake includes 8 oz (240 ml) of apple juice, 850 ml of water, 2 cups (480 ml) of beef broth, and 900 ml of I.V. fluid for a total of 2,470 ml intake for the shift.

Alkalosis is indicated by a pH above 7.45.

Cardiac rate and rhythm are the most important physical assessment parameter to measure. Skin turgor, intake and output are physical assessment parameters a nurse would consider when assessing fluid and electrolyte imbalance, but choice d is the most important.

Metastatic bone lesions are associated with hypercalcemia due to accelerated bone metabolism and release of calcium into the serum. Renal failure, inadequate calcium intake, and vitamin D deficiency may cause hypocalcemia.

Aldosterone is secreted in response to fluid loss. Aldosterone causes sodium reabsorption and potassium elimination, further exacerbating hypokalemia.

Perspiration and the fluid lost via the lungs are termed insensible losses; normally, insensible losses equal about 1000 cc/day.

Hypernatremia refers to elevated serum sodium levels, usually above 145 mEq/L. Typically, the client exhibits tented skin turgor and thirst in conjunction with dry, sticky mucous membranes, lethargy, and restlessness. Muscle weakness and paresthesia are associated with hypokalemia; fruity breath and Kussmaul’s respirations are associated with diabetic ketoacidosis. Muscle twitching and tetany may be seen with hypercalcemia or hyperphosphatemia.

Normal venous blood pH ranges from 7.31 to 7.41. Normal arterial blood pH ranges from 7.35 to 7.45.

Arterial blood gases will indicate CO2 and O2 levels. This is an indication that the respiratory system is functioning. Respiratory rate can reveal data about other systems, such as the brain, making letter c a better choice. Pulse rate is not measure of respiratory status. Pulse oximetry yields oxygen saturation levels, which is not a measure of acid-base balance.

Isotonic FVD involves an equal decrease in solute concentration and water volume.

Normal serum concentrations of chloride range from 95 to 108 mEq/L.

The client’s potassium level is elevated; therefore, Kayexalate would be ordered to help reduce the potassium level. Kayexalate is a cation-exchange resin, which can be given orally, by nasogastric tube, or by retention enema. Potassium is drawn from the bowel and excreted through the feces. Because the client’s potassium level is already elevated, potassium supplements would not be given. Neither calcium gluconate nor sodium tablets would address the client’s elevated potassium level.

Assessing dietary intake provides a foundation for the client’s usual practices and may help determine if the client is prone to constipation or diarrhea. Limited physical activity may contribute to constipation due to decreased peristalsis. Turning, coughing and deep breathing help promote gas exchange. Fluid intake should be increased to aid bowel elimination.

Renal failure can reduce magnesium excretion, leading to hypermagnesemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis, not insulin shock is a cause of hypermagnesemia. Hypoadrenalism, not hyperadrenalism is a cause of hypermagnesemia. Nausea and vomiting lead to hypomagnesemia.

Knowledge that redness, drainage, or fever — signs of infection associated with cellular injury — require reporting indicates that the client has understood the nurse’s discharge teaching. Follow-up checkups should be encouraged with an emphasis of antibiotic compliance even if the client feels better. There are usually activity limitations after cellular injury.

For patient with hyperthermia, reducing the room temperature may help decrease the body temperature. Tepid baths, cool compresses, and cooling blanket may also be necessary. Antipyretics, and not antiemetics, are indicated to reduce fever. Oral or rectal temperature measurements are generally accepted and are more accurate than axillary measurements. Fluids should be encouraged, not restricted to compensate for insensible losses.

The ABG results indicate respiratory acidosis requiring improved ventilation and increased oxygen to the lungs. Coughing and deep breathing can accomplish this. The nurse would administer high oxygen levels because the client does not have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Breathing into a paper bag is appropriate for a client hyperventilating and experiencing respiratory alkalosis. Some action is necessary, because the ABG results are not within normal limits.

Metabolic acidosis results from excessive absorption or retention of acid or excessive excretion of bicarbonate. A base is needed. Sodium bicarbonate is a base and is used to treat documented metabolic acidosis. Potassium, serum sodium determinations, and a bronchodilator would be inappropriate orders for this client.

Anti-inflammatory agents help reduce edema and relieve pressure on nerve endings, subsequently reducing pain. Elevating the injured area increases venous return to the heart. Maintaining clean, dry skin aids in preventing skin breakdown. Cool packs, not warm packs, should be used initially to cause vasoconstriction and reduce edema.

Hypermagnesemia is manifested by hot, flushed skin and diaphoresis. The client also may exhibit hypotension, lethargy, drowsiness, and absent deep tendon reflexes. Muscle pain and acute rhabdomyolysis are indicative of hypophosphatemia. Soft-tissue calcification and hyperreflexia are indicative of hyperphosphatemia. Increased respiratory rate and depth are associated with metabolic acidosis.

In a client with hypocalcemia, a positive Trousseau’s sign refers to carpopedal spasm that develops usually within 2 to 5 minutes after applying and inflating a blood pressure cuff to about 20 mm Hg higher than systolic pressure on the upper arm. This spasm occurs as the blood supply to the ulnar nerve is obstructed. Chvostek’s sign refers to twitching of the facial nerve when tapping below the earlobe. Paresthesia refers to the numbness or tingling. Tetany is a clinical manifestation of hypocalcemia denoted by tingling in the tips of the fingers around the mouth, and muscle spasms in the extremities and face.

Oral potassium supplements are known to irritate gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa and should be diluted.

Potassium must be well diluted and given slowly because rapid administration will cause cardiac arrest.

Calcium gluconate is used for replacement in deficiency states. Calcitonin and loop diuretics are used to lower serum calcium.

In diffusion, the solute moves from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration, creating osmotic pressure. Osmotic pressure is related to the process of osmosis. Filtration is created by hydrostatic pressure. Capillary dynamics are related to fluid exchange at the intravascular and interstitial levels.

Hyporeflexia is a symptom of hypokalemia

Chloride is a major anion found in the extracellular fluid. A compound occurs when two ions are bound together. Chloride is an ion, but this choice is too general. HCO3 is a cation.

Handwashing remains the most effective procedure for controlling microorganisms and the incidence of nosocomial infections. Aseptic technique is essential with invasive procedures, including indwelling catheters. Masks, gowns, and gloves are necessary only when the likelihood of exposure to blood or body fluids is high. Spills of blood from clients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome should be cleaned with sodium hydrochloride.

After discharge, the client is responsible for his own care and health maintenance management. Discharge includes assessing the home environment for determining the client’s ability to maintain his health at home.

Sodium is the electrolyte whose level is the primary determinant of the extracellular fluid concentration. Sodium a cation (e.g., positively charged ion), is the major electrolyte in extracellular fluid. Chloride, an anion (e.g., negatively charged ion), is also present in extracellular fluid, but to a lesser extent. Potassium (a cation) and phosphate (an anion) are the major electrolytes in the intracellular fluid.

Hyponatremia involves a decreased concentration of sodium in relation to fluid volume, so restricting fluid intake is indicated.

The client who is hyperventilating and subsequently develops respiratory alkalosis is losing too much carbon dioxide. Measures that result in the retention of carbon dioxide are needed. Encourage slow, deep breathing to retain carbon dioxide and reverse respiratory alkalosis. Administering low-flow oxygen therapy is appropriate for chronic respiratory acidosis. Administering sodium bicarbonate is appropriate for treating metabolic acidosis, and administering sodium chloride is appropriate for metabolic alkalosis.

Eclampsia is associated with increased levels of serum chloride.