A client is taking furosemide (Lasix), a diuretic. and becomes confused. Which potassium level does the nurse correlate with this condition?
5.0 mEq/L
2.9 mEq/L
3.8 mEq/L
6.0 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased urine output. However, this medication can also cause potassium loss through increased urinary excretion, which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium level). Hypokalemia can cause confusion, weakness, and other neurological symptoms.
The normal range for serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range and is considered hypokalemic. Therefore, the nurse should correlate the client's confusion with the low potassium level and notify the healthcare provider to adjust the medication or provide potassium supplements if indicated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The patient with primary hyperparathyroidism has high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) which can lead to symptoms such as kidney stones, bone pain, and weakness. High urine calcium levels may also be present due to the increased calcium in the blood.
One important intervention for managing hypercalcemia is to encourage fluid intake to promote increased urine output and prevent the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, the nurse should encourage the patient to drink at least 4000 ml of fluids per day.
Seizure precautions (a), range-of-motion exercises (b), and monitoring for positive Chvostek’s or Trousseaus sign (d) are not directly related to managing hypercalcemia and are not necessary in this case.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Based on the given documentation, the nurse suspects that the client has respiratory alkalosis. The client's ABG results show a pH of 7.52, which indicates alkalosis and the PaO2 level is slightly low, suggesting respiratory involvement. Rapid breathing (RR44) and wheezing also support the possibility of respiratory alkalosis.
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