An elderly patient reports having watery diarrhea for several days before coming to the clinic. This morning the patient is lethargic and confused. The nurse would assess this patient for which electrolyte imbalance?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms are suggestive of hyponatremia, which is characterized by low levels of sodium in the blood. Watery diarrhea can cause excessive loss of sodium and other electrolytes, leading to hyponatremia. Lethargy and confusion are also typical symptoms of hyponatremia. Hypernatremia (A) is characterized by high levels of sodium in the blood, which is unlikely given the patient's symptoms. Hypermagnesemia (C) and hyperkalemia (D) are electrolyte imbalances that are typically associated with kidney disease or certain medications, which do not appear to be relevant in this case.

An Elderly Patient Reports Having Watery Diarrhea for Several Days