Question

The nurse is obtaining a history of an 80-year-old client. Which statement made by the client might indicate a possible fluid and electrolyte imbalance? A. "My skin is always so dry." B. "I often use a laxative for constipation." C. "I have always liked to drink a lot of ice tea." D. "I sometimes have a problem with dribbling urine."

Short answer

A. My skin is always so dry. B. I often use a laxative for constipation. C. I have always liked to drink a lot of ice tea. D. I sometimes have a problem with dribbling urine. Answer: B. I often use a laxative for constipation.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate statement A

Statement A says, "My skin is always so dry." Dry skin could be a result of many factors, such as aging, environmental factors, or dehydration. In this case, it doesn't necessarily indicate a fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Evaluate statement B

Statement B says, "I often use a laxative for constipation." Frequent use of laxatives can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the body, as they can lead to dehydration and loss of essential electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium.

Evaluate statement C

Statement C says, "I have always liked to drink a lot of ice tea." Drinking a lot of ice tea could lead to excessive fluid intake, but it does not necessarily result in fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Although excessive consumption of caffeinated drinks might have an effect on fluid balance, it is not a definite indicator in this context.

Evaluate statement D

Statement D says, "I sometimes have a problem with dribbling urine." This statement might indicate a urinary issue like incontinence, but it doesn't necessarily suggest a fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Choose the best answer

Based on the evaluation of all the statements, statement B "I often use a laxative for constipation" is the one that might indicate a possible fluid and electrolyte imbalance, since frequent use of laxatives can lead to dehydration and loss of essential electrolytes. Therefore, the correct answer is B.