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A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing diarrhea and vomiting and has a sodium level of 124 mEq/L. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

A) Orthostatic hypotension
B) Hoarse voice
C) Neck vein distention
D) Muscle twitching

User Bryan Head
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The nurse should expect to see Orthostatic hypotension in a patient with hyponatremia due to diarrhea and vomiting since low sodium levels can lead to decreased blood pressure. Hoarse voice, neck vein distention, and muscle twitching are less directly related to low sodium levels and dehydration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hyponatremia, characterized by a sodium level of 124 mEq/L, suggests that the person is experiencing a significant electrolyte imbalance, likely due to the concurrent diarrhea and vomiting. Sodium is essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.

Given the symptoms and the sodium level described, the most likely manifestation the nurse should expect is Orthostatic hypotension (A). This condition is related to hyponatremia as reduced sodium levels can lead to decreased blood volume and lower blood pressure, particularly when the person stands up (thus 'orthostatic').

Other possible symptoms, not listed in the options but related to hyponatremia, include nausea, muscle weakness, headache, confusion, and seizures in severe cases. The symptoms of a hoarse voice (B), neck vein distention (C), and muscle twitching (D) are less directly related to the low sodium levels and are not as commonly seen with dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting.

User Cansadadeserfeliz
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