Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 84%
Simulated
The nurse is administering mannitol IV to decrease the clientÔÇÖs ICP following a craniotomy. Which laboratory test result should the nurse monitor during the clientÔÇÖs treatment with mannitol?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Mannitol (Osmitrol), an osmotic diuretic, increases the serum osmolarity and pulls fluid from the tissues, thus decreasing cerebral edema postoperatively. Serum osmolarity levels should be assessed as a parameter to determine proper dosage. The WBC count is not affected by mannitol. Serum cholesterol is not affected by mannitol. ESR is not affected by mannitol.