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
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from decreased insulin secretion and/or increased insulin resistance. In type 2 diabetes, the body's cells become resistant to insulin, which is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells for energy. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for the increased demand, but over time, the pancreas may not be able to keep up, and blood sugar levels rise.
Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, people with type 2 diabetes still produce insulin, but their body is not able to use it effectively. Therefore, type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, and/or medication, such as oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Before administering any medication, the nurse should confirm the potassium level to ensure that it is still elevated and needs to be treated. Potassium levels can fluctuate, so repeating the test will ensure that the client receives the appropriate treatment.
Options (a) Withhold the medication and (b) Administering a hypertonic solution may be appropriate interventions depending on the client's condition, but confirming the potassium level is the first step.
Option (d) Monitoring for paresthesia is important but not the first action that the nurse should take.
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