ATI Fundamentals LPN Related

Review ATI Fundamentals LPN related questions and content

Becky has been NPO since midnight in preparation for a blood test. The adreno-cortical response is activated. Which of the following is an expected response?

  • A. Low blood pressure
  • B. Warm, dry skin
  • C. Decreased serum sodium levels
  • D. Decreased urine output
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The adrenocortical response, triggered by fasting (NPO status), activates stress hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, conserving resources during deprivation. Decreased urine output results from aldosterone's promotion of sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys, maintaining fluid volume and blood pressure. This adaptation counters the stress of fasting, ensuring homeostasis. Low blood pressure would oppose this, as the response aims to stabilize circulation, not reduce it. Warm, dry skin isn't typical; stress might cause cool, clammy skin from vasoconstriction, but fasting alone doesn't dictate this. Decreased serum sodium levels contradict aldosterone's sodium-retaining effect, which elevates or stabilizes sodium. Decreased urine output aligns with the body's conservation mechanism, making it the expected physiological response in this scenario, critical for nurses to recognize during patient monitoring.