Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Disorders of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Disorders of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client with hypovolemia related to prolonged vomiting and decreased intake of oral fluids. What activity(ies) should the nurse include in the client's plan of care? Select all that apply.

  • A. Encourage the client to drink a 16 oz (480 mL) glass of water over the course of 15 minutes.
  • B. Instruct the client to avoid beverages with additives such as electrolytes.
  • C. Inform the primary provider if urine output is 3.5 oz (100 mL) per day or lower.
  • D. Monitor weight daily.
  • E. Assess skin turgor and mucous membranes.
Correct Answer: D,E

Rationale: The nurse should monitor the client's weight daily and assess skin turgor and mucous membranes. The nurse should offer clear liquids in small amounts. Slow introduction of fluids enables the client to develop tolerance and determine if it is possible to advance the diet. The nurse should recommend the use of commercial, over-the-counter beverages that contain electrolytes. If the client's urine output drops below 17 oz (500 mL) per day, the nurse should notify the primary provider because this indicates severe dehydration and the need for IV replacement fluids.