A client was seen in the emergency room with a complaint of severe episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, and complains of feeling lightheaded.
Which laboratory test should the nurse prioritize?

Blood glucose levels.

Serum potassium levels.

Lipid profile.

Thyroid function tests.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale

Blood glucose levels are important but are not the immediate priority for assessing the cause of severe vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are more likely to be the cause.

Choice B rationale

Serum potassium levels should be prioritized as vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant potassium loss, which can result in dangerous cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms. Assessing potassium levels is crucial in this scenario.

Choice C rationale

Lipid profile is not relevant in the acute assessment of severe vomiting, diarrhea, and lightheadedness. This test is more useful for long-term cardiovascular risk assessment.

Choice D rationale

Thyroid function tests are not immediately relevant to the acute symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are a more immediate concern.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice C rationale

Administering another nitroglycerin tablet is appropriate if the client's chest pain has not been fully relieved after the initial dose. Nitroglycerin helps to dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart and relieving angina. A second dose can be given if the pain persists, following the protocol for managing chest pain.

Choice A rationale

Obtaining an ECG is important for diagnosing and monitoring cardiac conditions; however, in this immediate context, further pain relief takes precedence. After ensuring pain relief, an ECG can be performed to assess the client's cardiac status.

Choice B rationale

Calling the Rapid Response Team is unnecessary if the client’s chest pain severity has already decreased. The priority should be to continue managing the chest pain with additional nitroglycerin if needed and monitoring the client's response.

Choice D rationale

Initiating a peripheral IV might be required for administering medications or fluids, but it is not the immediate action needed in this scenario. The priority is to provide additional pain relief with nitroglycerin.

A. Prepare the client for lithotripsy to break up the stones. B. Order a renal ultrasound to assess for the presence and location of the stones. C. Administer pain medication as prescribed. D. Initiate intravenous (IV) fluid therapy.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale

Preparing the client for lithotripsy is important for treatment but is not the immediate highest priority in an emergency setting. Immediate pain management takes precedence.

Choice B rationale

Ordering a renal ultrasound is necessary for assessing the stones but comes after stabilizing the client's acute symptoms, including managing pain.

Choice C rationale

Administering pain medication as prescribed is the highest priority because renal colic causes severe pain. Immediate pain relief is crucial for the client's comfort and to facilitate further diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

Choice D rationale

Initiating IV fluid therapy is important for hydration and possibly aiding stone passage but follows after addressing the acute pain.

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A client was seen in the emergency room with a complaint of severe episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, and complains of feeling lightheaded.Which laboratory test should the nurse prioritize?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client is admitted to the emergency room with renal colic due to renal lithiasis (stones). What is the nurse's highest priority in managing care for this client?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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A client was seen in the emergency room with a complaint of severe episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, and complains of feeling lightheaded.
Which laboratory test should the nurse prioritize?