If a patient presents with a critical BUN level, the nurse should first?

In the scenario where a patient presents with a critical blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level, the first action taken should be to check for dehydration. BUN is a waste product that is used as an indicator of kidney function and hydration status. A critical BUN level can suggest that the kidneys are not functioning properly, or it may indicate dehydration, as elevated BUN levels can result from a concentrated blood state due to low fluid volume.

Assessing for dehydration involves evaluating the patient for signs such as dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, low blood pressure, or oliguria (decreased urine output). This assessment is crucial because if the patient is dehydrated, addressing this condition promptly through hydration (possibly intravenous fluids) would be necessary to mitigate potential complications related to renal function and overall patient stability. Once the assessment is completed, further actions can be taken, such as notifying the physician or administering fluids based on the findings.

By determining the hydration status first, the nurse can prioritize interventions effectively and ensure that any treatment initiated is appropriately tailored to the patient's needs.