A patient with a serum sodium level of 115 mmol/L has a decreasing level of consciousness (LOC)and complains of a headache.Which of the following orders should be the priority?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's low serum sodium level (hyponatremia) is likely the cause of their decreasing LOC and headache. Hypertonic saline is the most important intervention as it will immediately raise the serum sodium, improving brain function and relieving symptoms. Administering Tylenol or drawing ABGs is not the priority at this time. While CT of the head may be indicated later, it is not as urgent as addressing the hyponatremia.

A Patient with a Serum Sodium Level of 115 Mmol/L