Author Question: A patient with a history of alcoholism is being treated in the intensive care unit for multiple ... (Read 23 times)

james9437 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient with a history of alcoholism is being treated in the intensive care unit for multiple trauma following a motor vehicle accident.

The patient is currently being treated with lorazepam (Ativan) to treat signs of alcohol withdrawal as well as hydromorphone (Dilaudid) for the pain of injuries. The intensive care nurse should prioritize what assessments? A) Arterial blood gases
B) Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
C) Deep tendon reflexes and pupillary response
D) Cardiac rate and rhythm

Question 2

A nurse educator is explaining the pathophysiology of diabetes to a newly diagnosed patient. The patient does not understand why she had a constant, insatiable thirst in the months preceding her diagnosis.

What phenomenon should the nurse describe? A) The excess glucose in your blood accumulates in your blood vessels and neurons, including the neurons that control thirst.
B) Excess glucose pulled more water through your kidneys and the increased urination caused thirst.
C) Increased thirst is your body's attempt to dilute your blood because it contains too much glucose.
D) When your body cells are starved for useful glucose, they signal your body to increase food and fluid intake.

eliasc0401 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Feedback:
The combination of opioids and benzodiazepines creates a significant risk for CNS depression; respiratory function is consequently an important focus of assessment. It would likely supersede other assessments, even though each may be warranted.

Answer to Question 2

B
Feedback:
When large amounts of glucose are present, water is pulled into the renal tubule. This results in a greatly increased urine output (polyuria). The excessive loss of fluid in urine leads to increased thirst (polydipsia). Glucose does not directly affect the thirst center.