Question

A nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with chronic renal failure who has recently begun hemodialysis. The nurse determines that the client has not tolerated the procedure optimally if the client experiences which symptoms that represent disequilibrium syndrome?

a) restlessness, irritability, and generalized weakness
b) headache, deteriorating level of consciousness, and seizures
c) hypertension, tachycardia, and fever
d) hypotension, bradycardia, and hypothermia

Answer 1

Headache, deteriorating level of consciousness, and seizures in a client newly diagnosed with chronic renal failure and on hemodialysis may indicate disequilibrium syndrome. This rare but dangerous condition is related to rapid shifts in blood chemistry during dialysis.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client newly diagnosed with chronic renal failure and on hemodialysis is experiencing symptoms of headache, deteriorating level of consciousness, and seizures, the nurse could determine that these signs may represent disequilibrium syndrome. Disequilibrium syndrome is a rare but dangerous complication associated with hemodialysis, especially in those who are new to the treatment or with severe uremia.

Disequilibrium syndrome can be caused by a rapid decrease in blood urea levels during hemodialysis, leading to osmotic imbalances and cerebral edema. Other symptoms related to renal failure include metabolic acidosis, heart arrhythmias, and fluid volume overload. Prevention and early detection of symptoms are essential for the management of this syndrome.