Module 1
These two phases often occur in chronic illness and describe symptom changes over time.
What are remission and exacerbation?
A 1-kg (2.2-lb) weight gain equals approximately this amount of fluid.
What is 1 liter (1000 mL)?
A sodium level below the normal range (135-145) mEq/L is called this.
What is hyponatremia?
This lab value is the best indicator of kidney function.
What is GFR?
Rationale: GFR naturally decreases with age; Severe dehydration can temporarily lower GFR; Damage to kidneys can cause low GFR; Low GFR for 3mos or more is a sign of chronic kidney disease.
This is the first nursing action when a client shows signs of a fluid or electrolyte imbalance.
What is assessment (vital signs, I&O, mental status, labs)?
This type of illness often affects the entire family, not just the individual.
What is chronic illness?
Crackles, edema, and distended neck veins suggest this fluid imbalance.
What is fluid volume excess (hypervolemia)?
This electrolyte imbalance can cause muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias.
What is hypokalemia?
Diabetes and hypertension are leading causes of this condition.
What is chronic kidney disease (CKD)?
This nursing intervention is used to accurately monitor fluid balance in hospitalized clients.
What is strict intake and output?
Living with symptoms long-term, adapting routines, and managing uncertainty are all part of this experience.
What is managing chronic illness?
Tachycardia, hypotension, and oliguria are common signs of this condition.
What is fluid volume deficit (hypovolemia)?
Padding side rails is especially important with low levels of this electrolyte.
What is magnesium?
An enlarged prostate causing urinary frequency and weak stream is called this.
What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
This safety intervention is a priority for clients with electrolyte imbalances that affect neuromuscular function.
What are seizure precautions (or padding side rails)?
A teaching strategy especially important when educating older adults is this.
What is frequent reinforcement?
This type of IV fluid is typically used first to treat hypovolemia.
What is an isotonic solution (normal saline)?
Trousseau and Chvostek signs indicate low levels of this electrolyte.
What is calcium?
This dialysis access should never be used for blood pressure readings.
What is an AV fistula?
Daily weights are most useful for evaluating this aspect of patient status.
What is fluid volume status?
This body composition change increases fluid and electrolyte imbalance risk in aging adults.
What is decreased muscle mass?
A client with a PICC line has a 2-cm increase in arm circumference, warmth, and pain. The nurse’s priority action is to do this.
What is stop using the PICC line and notify the provider?
This electrolyte is considered high-alert because it can cause cardiac arrest if abnormal.
What is potassium?
This medication for BPH can cause orthostatic hypotension and should be taken at bedtime.
What is tamsulosin (or doxazosin)?
What education will you provide to the client?
A client has a potassium level of 6.1 (3.5-5 mE9/L). Before administering any medications, the nurse should immediately do this.
What is place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring?