Reference no: EM133988213
Assignment:
Patient Profile
P.B., a 74-year-old woman who lives alone, is admitted to the hospital because of weakness and confusion. She has a history of chronic heart failure and chronic diuretic use.
Objective Data
Physical Examination
• Neurologic: Confusion, slow to respond to questioning, generalized weakness
• Cardiovascular: BP 90/62, HR 112 bpm and irregular, peripheral pulses weak; ECG indicates sinus tachycardia
• Pulmonary: RR 12 and shallow
• Additional findings: Decreased skin turgor, dry mucous membranes
Laboratory Results
• Serum electrolytes
¦ Na+: 141 mEq/L (141 mmol/L)
¦ K+: 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L)
¦ Cl-: 85 mEq/L (85 mmol/L)
• BUN: 42 mg/dL (15 mmol/L)
• Hct: 49%
• Arterial blood gases
¦ pH: 7.52
¦ PaCO2: 55 mm Hg
¦ PaO2: 88 mm Hg
¦ HCO -: 34 mEq/L (34 mmol/L)
Question 1. Evaluate P.B.'s fluid volume and electrolyte status. Which physical assessment findings support your analysis? Which laboratory results support your analysis? What is the most likely etiology of these imbalances?
Question 2. Why has P.B.'s advanced age placed her at risk for fluid imbalance?
Question 3. Based on the assessment data presented, what are the priority nursing diagnoses?
Question 4. Develop a plan of care for P.B. while she is in the hospital. What are the priority daily assessments that should be included in this plan of care?