Final answer:
Decreased urine specific gravity is expected in a client with fluid volume excess due to the dilution of urine from an increase in blood volume and pressure. Hematocrit and BUN levels may decrease because solutes are more diluted in the presence of excess fluid volume.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client with fluid volume excess, also known as hypervolemia, typically presents alterations in various lab values. One important change is the decreased urine specific gravity, which occurs because the kidneys are attempting to excrete excess water, diluting the urine. Therefore, Option C: Decreased urine specific gravity is the expected finding in a patient with fluid volume excess. In this condition, there is an increase in blood volume and pressure, leading to diluted blood solutes, such as sodium and hematocrit levels. Increased volume also decreases blood urea nitrogen (BUN) because solutes are more diluted.
Moreover, hypernatremia (elevated sodium levels) can occur due to water loss and hemoconcentration, but this contradicts the scenario of fluid volume excess. It is important to note that specific medical conditions, such as heart failure or renal dysfunction, can also affect these lab values. Assessment of clinical symptoms alongside lab values is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.