A 70-year-old client returned from a transurethral resection of the prostate 8 hours ago with a continuous bladder irrigation.The nurse reviews his laboratory results as follows:

What action by the nurse is the most appropriate?

Question

A 70-year-old client returned from a transurethral resection of the prostate 8 hours ago with a continuous bladder irrigation.The nurse reviews his laboratory results as follows:

What action by the nurse is the most appropriate?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The serum sodium is decreased due to large-volume bladder irrigation (normal is 136 to 145 mEq/L).By slowing the irrigation,there will be less fluid overload and sodium dilution.The hemoglobin and hematocrit values are a low normal,with a slight decrease in the red blood cell count.Therefore,a blood transfusion or frequent vital signs should not be necessary.Immediate report to the surgeon is not necessary.

A 70-Year-Old Client Returned from a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate