Reference no: EM133710748

Question

A 77-year-old patient fell at home after having vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours. The patient was admitted to the hospital for treatment after x-rays indicated no fractured bones. The patient lives alone in an apartment. The patient has osteoarthritis in both hands; otherwise, no other chronic conditions. The nurse assigned to admit the patient notes that the patient had three brown, watery stools, and has hyperactive bowel sounds with abdominal cramping. The nurse notes decreased skin turgor. Noted is a 3 cm area of redness on the sacrum with intact skin. The patient tells the nurse about experiencing nausea, stating "I am slightly nauseated and feel lightheaded and dizzy." The assessment reveals vital signs: temperature, 99.6°F (37.6°C); pulse, 110 beats/min and regular; supine BP 90/58 mm Hg with no changes when standing; respirations, 18 breaths/min, pulse oximetry reading 95%, weight 116 lbs (52.62 kg).