The nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has been receiving nasogastric suction for 3 days. The client's serum sodium level is 123 mmol/L. Which of the following prescribed therapies would the nurse implement? (Select all that apply.)
A)Infuse 5% dextrose in water at 125 mL/hour.
B)Administer IV morphine sulphate 4 mg every 4 hours PRN.
C)Give IV metoclopramide 10 mg every 6 hours PRN for nausea.
D)Administer 3% saline if serum sodium drops to less than 128 mmol/L.
E)Withhold opioid prescription related to adverse events with low sodium level.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is appropriate to provide pain relief for the postoperative client and treatment for nausea as required. The serum sodium is low; therefore, serum sodium drops are appropriate for this client. Because the client's gastric suction has been depleting electrolytes, the IV solution should include electrolyte replacement, not dextrose. Solutions such as lactated Ringer's solution would usually be ordered for this client. The postoperative pain medication order would not be withheld.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Is Postoperative