A client is being treated for acute pyelonephritis and will undergo laboratory tests. These tests are expected to help determine the clients BUN, creatinine, and serum electrolyte levels. Why should the nurse evaluate these test results?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Evaluating the client's BUN, creatinine, and serum electrolyte levels when being treated for acute pyelonephritis is crucial in determining the severity of the disorder. BUN and creatinine levels are indicators of renal function, where elevated levels may suggest impaired kidney function due to inflammation in the kidneys from pyelonephritis. Abnormal electrolyte levels, such as potassium and sodium, may also reflect the impact of the infection on renal function. Therefore, monitoring these test results helps healthcare providers assess how well the kidneys are functioning and the severity of the pyelonephritis to guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Fruits such as bananas are a good source of potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including maintaining proper muscle function, nerve transmission, and fluid balance. Bananas are easy to incorporate into the diet and provide a significant amount of potassium per serving. Other fruits high in potassium include oranges, melons, and avocados. Therefore, recommending the addition of fruits such as bananas is a suitable way to supplement a diet with foods high in potassium.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Hypernatremia is a condition characterized by high levels of sodium in the blood. When monitoring for hypernatremia, the nurse should assess the client for signs of neurologic impairment, such as confusion. This is because hypernatremia can lead to changes in mental status due to the hyperosmolarity of the blood affecting brain function. Assessing for confusion is crucial in identifying and managing hypernatremia promptly to prevent further complications. Dry skin, tachycardia, and pale coloring are not specific manifestations of hypernatremia and are less likely to be directly related to this electrolyte imbalance.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Frequent oral care is important for overall oral health and cleanliness, but it will not directly help correct the patient's fluid imbalance. The patient's condition likely requires direct fluid replacement to address the fluid loss and restore balance. A, B, and D are focused on fluid replacement strategies which are more crucial in correcting the patient's condition. Offering a large amount of oral fluid intake to replace lost fluids, giving enteral or parenteral fluid, and giving small volumes of fluid at frequent intervals are all appropriate measures that can help correct the patient's condition by addressing the underlying fluid imbalance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring the client's temperature before, during, and after transfusion is essential to determine if chilling is the result of an emerging complication or of infusing cold blood. By consistently monitoring the client's temperature at different points in the transfusion process, healthcare providers can identify any significant changes that may indicate a complication. This allows for timely intervention and appropriate management of any issues related to the blood transfusion. Comparing the client's temperature with the temperature of the blood is important but alone it may not provide a comprehensive assessment of the client's condition during the transfusion process. So, the best course of action is to monitor the client's temperature at various time points to ensure accurate assessment and early detection of any complications.