ATI RN
Fluid and Electrolytes ATI
1. During a visit to an 84-year-old woman recovering from hip surgery, the nurse notices signs of confusion and poor skin turgor. The woman mentions she limits water intake to avoid nighttime bathroom trips. The nurse should explain to the woman that:
- A. She will need her medications adjusted and be readmitted for a complete workup.
 - B. Limiting fluids can lead to body imbalances causing confusion; perhaps adjusting fluid intake timing is necessary.
 - C. Post-surgical confusion is common, and it's safe not to urinate at night.
 - D. Confusion after surgery is typical in the elderly due to sleep loss.
 
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. In elderly patients, fluid and electrolyte imbalances can manifest with subtle signs like confusion. Limiting fluids can lead to such imbalances, affecting cognitive function. Adjusting the timing of fluid intake can help maintain hydration without causing nighttime disruptions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A suggests unnecessary hospital readmission and medication adjustments without addressing the root cause. Choice C wrongly normalizes the confusion and fails to address the potential issue of fluid restriction. Choice D incorrectly attributes confusion solely to sleep loss without considering the impact of fluid balance.
2. What is the fluid that surrounds the cells called?
- A. plasma
 - B. interstitial fluid
 - C. intracellular fluid
 - D. edema
 
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is interstitial fluid. Interstitial fluid is the fluid that surrounds and fills the spaces between cells, facilitating nutrient and waste exchange. Plasma, referred to in choice A, is the liquid part of blood. Choice C, intracellular fluid, is the fluid inside cells. Choice D, edema, is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in interstitial spaces, causing swelling.
3. A nurse assesses a client who is admitted for treatment of fluid overload. Which manifestations should the nurse expect to find? (Select all that do not apply.)
- A. Increased pulse rate
 - B. . Distended neck veins
 - C. Warm and pink skin
 - D. Skeletal muscle weakness
 
Correct answer: C
Rationale:
4. A nurse evaluates a clients arterial blood gas values (ABGs): pH 7.30, PaO2 86 mm Hg, PaCO2 55 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
- A. Assess the airway.
 - B. Administer prescribed bronchodilators.
 - C. Provide oxygen.
 - D. Administer prescribed mucolytics
 
Correct answer: A
Rationale:
5. What is the main water-holding force in the blood capillaries?
- A. Capillary blood pressure
 - B. Sodium in the blood plasma
 - C. Protein in the blood plasma
 - D. Chloride in the blood plasma
 
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Protein in the blood plasma. Plasma proteins, especially albumin, create oncotic pressure, which is the main force responsible for holding water within the blood capillaries. Capillary blood pressure (Choice A) is involved in pushing blood through the capillaries, while sodium and chloride in the blood plasma (Choices B and D) are electrolytes and do not play a significant role in the water-holding force within capillaries.
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