A client is hospitalized for observation after suffering heat exhaustion during a marathon race. He complains of dizziness when he stands up, and the RN determines that he has postural hypotension. Based on the information, which of the following electrolyte imbalances could cause the client's symptoms?
Hypernatremia
Hyponatremia
Hyperkalemia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Hypernatremia is a condition of high sodium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth, confusion, agitation, and seizures. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.
Choice B reason: Hyponatremia is a condition of low sodium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, fatigue, and confusion. It can also cause postural hypotension, as sodium helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, paralysis, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is more related to fluid and sodium levels.
Choice D reason: Hypokalemia is a condition of low potassium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, fatigue, constipation, and arrhythmias. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is more related to fluid and sodium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Utilize supine positioning to maximize chest expansion is not an important intervention for clients with a BMI greater than or equal to 30. Supine positioning is when the client lies flat on their back. This position can actually impair chest expansion and breathing for clients with a high BMI, as the weight of the abdomen and chest can compress the lungs and diaphragm. A semi-Fowler's position, where the head of the bed is elevated at 30 to 45 degrees, is preferred for these clients, as it reduces the pressure on the chest and improves ventilation.
Choice B reason: Use an appropriately sized blood pressure cuff is an important intervention for clients with a BMI greater than or equal to 30. A blood pressure cuff that is too small or too tight can cause inaccurate readings and increase the risk of injury to the client. A blood pressure cuff that is too large or too loose can also cause inaccurate readings and compromise the quality of care. A blood pressure cuff that fits the client's arm circumference and width is essential for obtaining accurate and reliable measurements and preventing complications.
Choice C reason: Consult a nutritionist because the client is malnourished/underweight is not an important intervention for clients with a BMI greater than or equal to 30. A BMI greater than or equal to 30 indicates that the client is obese, not malnourished or underweight. Obesity is a condition where the client has excess body fat that can affect their health and well-being. Malnutrition is a condition where the client has inadequate or imbalanced intake of nutrients that can affect their growth and development. Underweight is a condition where the client has a low body weight that can affect their immunity and energy. A nutritionist can help clients with any of these conditions, but the statement is incorrect for clients with a high BMI.
Choice D reason: Place the client on fall precautions because of increased risk for falls due to frail bones is not an important intervention for clients with a BMI greater than or equal to 30. Frail bones are not a common consequence of obesity, but rather of osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and brittle. Obesity can actually increase the bone density and strength, as the bones have to support more weight. However, obesity can increase the risk for falls due to other factors, such as impaired mobility, balance, or coordination. Fall precautions are important for any client who is at risk for falls, but the statement is inaccurate for clients with a high BMI.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: An open wound is a concern for a diabetic client, as it can increase the risk of infection and delay the healing process. However, it does not require an immediate focused assessment, unless it is bleeding profusely, infected, or showing signs of tissue damage.
Choice B reason: Depression is a common complication of diabetes, as it can affect the client's mood, self-care, and adherence to treatment. However, it does not require an immediate focused assessment, unless the client is suicidal, psychotic, or unable to function.
Choice C reason: Chest pain is a symptom that can indicate a life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or aortic dissection. It requires an immediate focused assessment, as it can compromise the client's cardiac and respiratory function and lead to death.
Choice D reason: Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the client's blood glucose levels and can cause various complications, such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. However, it does not require an immediate focused assessment, unless the client is experiencing a hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic crisis.
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