A critically ill younger client has an elevated serum sodium level. Which action should the nurse take after learning of this laboratory value?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assessing a client for skin turgor or "tenting"
can be used to screen for hydration status. Although this may not be useful in older adults due to subcutaneous tissue loss and changes in skin elasticity related to aging, it may be a good indicator in a younger client. Hypernatremia refers to elevated serum sodium levels and signals the loss of water from the extracellular fluid. The condition of hypernatremia does not impact the client's oxygenation status, temperature or result in edema.

A Critically Ill Younger Client Has an Elevated Serum Sodium