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)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A rationale: Potassium 3.5 mEq/L and sodium 142 mEq/L are within normal ranges, not expected after vomiting and diarrhea which typically cause hypokalemia and hypernatremia due to fluid loss.

Choice B rationale: Potassium 4.5 mEq/L and sodium 140 mEq/L remain normal, not consistent with dehydration and gastrointestinal fluid loss, which usually lower potassium and elevate sodium concentration.

Choice C rationale: Potassium 5.0 mEq/L and sodium 138 mEq/L are normal values, not typical after prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, where potassium decreases and sodium increases due to water deficit.

Choice D rationale: Potassium 3.0 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia from gastrointestinal losses, and sodium 149 mEq/L indicates hypernatremia from dehydration, both expected findings after vomiting and diarrhea.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: While a medication reference guide is useful, it does not replace the need for clarification from the prescribing healthcare provider regarding dosage discrepancies.

Choice B reason: The nursing unit charge nurse can be a resource, but the prescriber should be the first contact for medication orders.

Choice C reason: The healthcare provider who prescribed the medication is the most appropriate resource to clarify and potentially correct the dosage of the oral antibiotic.

Choice D reason: The hospital pharmacist is a valuable resource for medication information and can be consulted, but the prescriber should first be contacted to address the discrepancy in dosages.

A. Document the site where the medication was given. B. Notify the healthcare provider of the allergic response. C. Elevate the area and apply light pressure over the site. D. Apply a cold pack to the area for twenty minutes.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: The appearance of a small, round raised area, known as a wheal, is a normal reaction to an intradermal injection and should be documented.

Choice B reason: This is not an allergic response but a normal reaction to an intradermal injection, so there is no need to notify the healthcare provider.

Choice C reason: There is no need to elevate the area or apply pressure as the raised area is a normal reaction to the medication being correctly placed in the dermis.

Choice D reason: Applying a cold pack is not necessary for a normal reaction to an intradermal injection.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A small, round raised area appears under the client's skin as the nurse administers an intradermal medication. Which action should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse is performing a routine dressing change for a client with a stage 3 pressure injury that is red with significant granulation. The wound has a gauze dressing covering the area. Which action should the nurse implement?

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