Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client with a sodium level of 116 mEq/L (135-145 mEq/L). Which finding should the nurse expect for this client to have?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Lethargy. A client with hyponatremia (sodium level <135 mEq/L) may experience lethargy due to neurological changes caused by the imbalance. Sodium plays a crucial role in nerve cell function, and low levels can lead to neurological symptoms like fatigue and confusion. Extreme thirst (A) is more common in hypernatremia. Paresthesias (B) are not typically associated with hyponatremia. Blood clots (D) are not directly related to sodium levels.