A patient with possible cerebral edema has a serum sodium level of 115 mEq/L (115 mmol/L), a decreasing level of consciousness (LOC) and complains of a headache. All of the following orders have been received. Which one should the nurse accomplish first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's low sodium indicates that hyponatremia may be causing the cerebral edema, and the nurse's first action should be to correct the low sodium level. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will have minimal effect on the headache because it is caused by cerebral edema and increased ICP. Drawing ABGs and obtaining a CT scan may add some useful information, but the low sodium level may lead to seizures unless it is addressed quickly.

A Patient with Possible Cerebral Edema Has a Serum Sodium