A Patient with Possible Cerebral Edema Has a Serum Sodium

question 29

Multiple Choice

A patient with possible cerebral edema has a serum sodium level of 115 mEq/L ( 115 mmol/L ) and a decreasing level of consciousness ( LOC ) and complains of a headache. Which of these prescribed interventions should the nurse implement first?

• A) Draw blood for arterial blood gases ( ABGs ).
• B) Administer 5% hypertonic saline intravenously.
• C) Administer acetaminophen ( Tylenol ) 650 mg orally.
• D) Send patient for computed tomography ( CT ) of the head.

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