A client reports a 2-day history of fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. The healthcare provider prescribes serum electrolyte levels to be obtained.
Reference Range:
Potassium (K+): 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)
Sodium (Na+): 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)
Which laboratory results should the nurse expect?
Serum potassium: 3.5 mEq/L (3.5 mmol/L), serum sodium: 142 mEq/L (142 mmol/L)
Serum potassium: 4.5 mEq/L (4.5 mmol/L), serum sodium: 140 mEq/L (140 mmol/L)
Serum potassium: 5.0 mEq/L (5.0 mmol/L), serum sodium: 138 mEq/L (138 mmol/L)
Serum potassium: 3.0 mEq/L (3.0 mmol/L), serum sodium: 149 mEq/L (149 mmol/L)
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The results are within the normal reference range for both potassium and sodium, which is expected unless the client's condition has led to significant electrolyte imbalances.
Choice B reason: A serum potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L is at the higher end of the normal range, which might not be expected in a client with vomiting and diarrhea, conditions that often lead to lower potassium levels.
Choice C reason: A serum potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is at the upper limit of the normal range and could indicate hyperkalemia, especially in the context of severe dehydration.
Choice D reason: A serum sodium level of 149 mEq/L is slightly above the normal range and could indicate hypernatremia, which may occur in dehydration but would require further assessment and intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Drinking 800 to 1,000 milliliters of fluid daily is below the recommended intake for most adults, which is generally around 2,000 milliliters per day to help prevent constipation.
Choice B reason: Oxycodone is an opioid that can actually lead to constipation, and its use should be carefully managed, not necessarily taken as scheduled for this purpose.
Choice C reason: Adding fat-containing foods is not a standard recommendation for preventing constipation; instead, a high-fiber diet is usually advised.
Choice D reason: Early and frequent ambulation is encouraged postoperatively to help stimulate bowel function and prevent constipation.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer isChoice A, Choice C, and Choice D.
Choice A rationale:A shuffling gait can indicate mobility issues, making it difficult for the client to safely perform foot care and toenail clipping. This increases the risk of falls and injuries.
Choice B rationale:Urinary incontinence does not directly affect the ability to perform foot care or toenail clipping. It is more related to bladder control issues.
Choice C rationale:Syncope when bending suggests that the client may experience dizziness or fainting when bending over, making it unsafe for them to perform foot care and toenail clipping.
Choice D rationale:Hand tremors can make it challenging for the client to handle nail clippers or other tools needed for foot care, increasing the risk of injury.
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