Author Question: The nurse is aware that to maintain fluid balance between the intracellular and extracellular ... (Read 51 times)

james9437 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The nurse is aware that to maintain fluid balance between the intracellular and extracellular compartments:

a. there is a constant exchange of water between the compartments
b. the hypothalamus sends each compartment messages regarding the need for retaining or releasing fluid to the cells
c. the kidneys retain and excrete fluid as needed for fluid balance
d. the lymph nodes throughout the body regulate fluid balance

Question 2

If a client's medical chart is used in a legal proceeding, which of the following represents an example of correct documentation under the standard of practice that the jury will be looking for?

a. Each chart entry should be signed or initialed.
b. Administration of medications is documented before they are actually given.
c. Nursing notes reflect facts and opinions about the client.
d. Nursing notes are changed to reflect changes in client status.

bigsis44 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
The proportions of extracellular and intracellular fluid vary with age. The balance of fluid between plasma and interstitial fluid is regulated by hydrostatic pressure (blood pressure) and osmotic pressure. If the intracellular fluid becomes hypertonic in relation to the extracellular fluid, water moves by osmosis from the extracellular fluid into the cell to restore balance. If the intracellular fluid becomes hypotonic in relation to the extracellular fluid, the process just described is reversed, resulting in a constant exchange between the compartments.

Answer to Question 2

A
Correct documentation under the standard of practice should include objective and accurate information to describe what is seen and done, and that each chart entry should be signed or initialed. When a chart ends up in court, this is the standard that the jury applies when determining what happened and who is at fault.