The nurse suspects fluid overload in an infant receiving ...

[Charlie]

The nurse suspects fluid overload in an infant receiving intravenous fluids. What clinical manifestation is suggestive of water intoxication?
 
  a. Oliguria
  b. Weight loss
  c. Irritability and seizures
  d. Muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias

Question 2

Physiologically, the child compensates for fluid volume losses by which mechanism?
 
  a. Inhibition of aldosterone secretion
  b. Hemoconcentration to reduce cardiac workload
  c. Fluid shift from interstitial space to intravascular space
  d. Vasodilation of peripheral arterioles to increase perfusion

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Irritability, somnolence, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and generalized seizures are manifestations of water intoxication. Urinary output is increased as the child attempts to maintain fluid balance. Weight gain is usually associated with water intoxication. Muscle weakness and cardiac dysrhythmias are not associated with water intoxication.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Compensatory mechanisms attempt to maintain fluid volume. Initially, interstitial fluid moves into the intravascular compartment to maintain blood volume. Aldosterone is released to promote sodium retention and conserve water in the kidneys. Hemoconcentration results from the fluid volume loss. With less circulating volume, tachycardia results. Vasoconstriction of peripheral arterioles occurs to help maintain blood pressure.