A patient with sodium of 128 mEq/L, confusion, and a seizure needs immediate nursing action. What is the best action?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Administer hypertonic saline cautiously
Severe hyponatremia (below 135 mEq/L) with neurologic changes/seizure may require hypertonic saline infusion under supervision to raise sodium safely.
Keep practicing
More Electrolyte Imbalances questions
- Which lab value falls within the normal range?
- What sign is most indicative of hypomagnesemia?
- A patient with hypercalcemia is at greatest risk for which complication?
- A patient on adrenal insufficiency has hyperkalemia (6.0 mEq/L) with peaked T-waves. Which initial treatment may be given emergently?
- Which electrolyte imbalance may result from prolonged nasogastric suctioning and diarrhea?
- A patient with SIADH presents with sodium 122 mEq/L and normal volume status. What mechanism is most likely at play?