Answer to Question 1
ANS: A
Normal BUN is 10 to 20 mg/dL. Normal creatinine is 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL (males) or 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL (females). Creatinine is more specific for kidney function than BUN, because BUN can be affected by several factors (dehydration, high-protein diet, and catabolism). This client's creatinine is normal, which suggests a non-renal cause for the elevated BUN. A common cause of increased BUN is dehydration, so the nurse should anticipate giving the client more fluids, not placing the client on fluid restrictions. Hemodialysis is not an appropriate treatment for dehydration. The lab results do not indicate an infection; therefore, a urine culture and sensitivity is not appropriate.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: A
An elevated BUN/creatinine ratio is often indicative of dehydration, urinary obstruction, catabolism, or a high-protein diet. The nurse should inquire about the client's dietary habits. Kidney damage related to NSAID use most likely would manifest with elevations in both BUN and creatinine, but no change in the ratio. The nurse should obtain more assessment data before holding any medications or contacting the provider.
A nurse adjusts the rate of a client’s IV.
A nurse administers an intermittent bolus feeding.
Health History Assessment Questions Pertinent to Drug Administration
THE DIMENSIONS OF PATIENT-CENTERED CARE
The nurse conveys attentive listening through a posture of involvement
Principles and Foundations of Health Promotion and Education (6th Edition)