Question

A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is reviewing the medical record of an older client receiving IV fluid therapy. Which information should indicate the need for re-evaluation of the IV therapy prescription?

a. Temperature 37.1°C
b. Blood pressure 118/68 mm Hg
c. Respiratory rate 18/min
d. BUN 29 mg/dL

Answer 1

A BUN value of 29 mg/dL in an older client receiving IV fluid therapy indicates that the IV therapy prescription may need to be re-evaluated, as it is above the normal range and can suggest renal impairment or dehydration.

Step-by-step explanation:

In reviewing the medical record of an older client receiving IV fluid therapy, the information that should indicate the need for re-evaluation of the IV therapy prescription is d. BUN 29 mg/dL. A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) value of 29 mg/dL is higher than the normal range, which can indicate renal impairment or dehydration, conditions that can be exacerbated by improper IV fluid therapy. The other values provided, such as a temperature of 37.1°C, blood pressure of 118/68 mm Hg, and respiratory rate of 18/min, are within normal ranges and would not typically call for a re-evaluation of IV therapy in this context. In older clients, impaired kidney function is common, and IV fluid therapy needs to be carefully monitored to prevent fluid overload or electrolyte imbalances.