The physician suspects that a patient under a lot of stress (stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system) is experiencing stress-induced release of vasopressin. Knowing the effects of an activated renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), the nurse should be assessing the patient for which primary nursing diagnosis?
A) Fluid volume excess related to retention of water in the body
B) Decreased cardiac output related to positional low blood pressure
C) Electrolyte imbalance related to retention of potassium
D) Nutritional imbalance related to vomiting and diarrhea

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Activation of the RAAS results in an increase in vascular tone (elevation of BP) and renal retention of sodium and water. These changes contribute to the physiologic changes that occur with the stress response.

The Physician Suspects That a Patient Under a Lot of Stress