Exam Guide
Expected Lab Finding After Vomiting and Diarrhea
Physiologic Needs · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set
Correct answer: Hyponatremia
Why this is the answer
Vomiting and diarrhea cause loss of sodium-rich GI fluids; combined with replacement using hypotonic fluids, this commonly results in a low serum sodium level.
The bigger concept
GI losses are rich in sodium, potassium, and (from the stomach) acid, so prolonged vomiting and diarrhea commonly produce hyponatremia and hypokalemia along with dehydration. Watch for the clinical picture: dry mucosa, poor turgor, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension, and low urine output. The PN/VN tracks intake and output, reports abnormal electrolytes to the RN, and encourages oral rehydration solutions rather than plain water, which can worsen the sodium deficit.
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