Exam 12: Fluid Volume and Electrolytes

A patient who is being treated for dehydration is receiving 5% dextrose and 0.45% normal saline with 20 mEq/L potassium chloride at a rate of 125 mL/h.The nurse assuming care for the patient reviews the patient's serum electrolytes and notes a serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L and a serum potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L.The patient had a urine output of 250 mL during the last 12-hour shift.Which action will the nurse take?

The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving oral potassium chloride supplements.The nurse notes that the patient has a heart rate of 120 beats per minute and has had a urine output of 200 mL in the past 12 hours.The patient reports abdominal cramping.Which action will the nurse take?

The nurse is caring for a patient who weighs 75 kg.The patient has intravenous (IV)fluids infusing at a rate of 50 mL/h and has consumed 100 mL of fluids orally in the past 24 hours.Which action will the nurse take?

The nurse is caring for a newly admitted patient who has severe gastroenteritis.The patient's electrolytes reveal a serum sodium level of 140 mEq/L and a serum potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L.The nurse receives an order for intravenous 5% dextrose and normal saline with 20 mEq/L potassium chloride to infuse at 125 mL/h.Which action is necessary prior to administering this fluid?

The nurse is performing an assessment on a patient brought to the emergency department for treatment for dehydration.The nurse assesses a respiratory rate of 26 breaths/minute,a heart rate of 110 beats/minute,a blood pressure of 86/50 mm Hg,and a temperature of 39.5° C.The patient becomes dizzy when transferred from the wheelchair to a bed.The nurse notes cool,clammy skin.Which diagnosis does the nurse suspect?