Final answer:
Hyponatremia, caused by decreased Na+ levels, can result in adverse effects like dehydration, reduced blood volume, and circulatory failure, typically associated with the use of certain diuretics. Hyperkalemia, on the other hand, involves elevated potassium levels and can have severe consequences for the heart and nervous system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hyponatremia, which refers to low sodium levels in the blood, can lead to dehydration, reduced blood volume, and circulatory failure. The correct answer to the question, which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of this medication, is d. decreased Na+ levels. This condition may result from the use of certain types of diuretics which inhibit the reabsorption of sodium and chloride, particularly in the loop of Henle. Meanwhile, hyperkalemia is the condition of elevated potassium levels, which can result from conditions such as renal failure, severe dehydration, and Addison's disease due to decreased excretion of potassium by the kidneys. This excessive potassium in the blood can cause serious complications including impairment of the nervous system and heart, potentially leading to life-threatening situations.
Moreover, a potassium deficiency in the body can disrupt cell membrane function and overall cell health, affirming the importance of balanced electrolyte levels for the proper functioning of bodily systems. Electrolyte imbalances like hypokalemia and hyponatremia can cause significant health issues and should be managed with appropriate medical guidance.