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
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Abdominal discomfort an hour after a meal is a common symptom of a gastric ulcer because the stomach is where food is initially processed, and stomach acid is most concentrated. In contrast, duodenal ulcers typically cause pain 2-3 hours after meals, as food moves out of the stomach and into the duodenum, where it encounters duodenal acid.
A positive stool occult blood test is a non-specific finding that can be caused by many gastrointestinal conditions, including peptic ulcers. It does not indicate the location of the ulcer.
The number of ulcers the client has had in the past does not indicate the location of the current ulcer.
Normal hemoglobin and hematocrit levels do not provide information about the location of the ulcer.
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