A client with a history of heart failure arrives at the emergency department describing an onset of fatigue and weakness.

The client has been taking spironolactone 50 mg tablets PO every day.

The nurse receives a report from the lab that the client has a serum potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L (6.2 mmol/L). Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Compare muscle strength bilaterally.

Observe color and amount of urine.

Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.

Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale
Comparing muscle strength bilaterally is important in assessing overall physical health and detecting any potential neuromuscular disorders. However, in the context of a client with a history of heart failure and elevated potassium levels, this would not be the most critical intervention. High potassium levels can lead to hyperkalemia, which can cause serious heart rhythm disturbances.
Choice B rationale
Observing the color and amount of urine can provide valuable information about the client’s hydration status and kidney function. In the case of heart failure, monitoring urine output can help assess the effectiveness of diuretic therapy and the progression of the disease. However, it is not the most immediate concern given the client’s high potassium levels.
Choice C rationale

Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention in this scenario. A serum potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L is higher than the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and can cause life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize assessing the client’s heart rhythm to detect any abnormalities caused by this electrolyte imbalance.
Choice D rationale
Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes can help identify changes in neuromuscular function and is often used in neurological assessments. However, it is not the most critical intervention in the context of elevated potassium levels and heart failure.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale
While having a case management evaluation of the client’s home environment can provide valuable information and potential solutions for caregiving challenges, it does not directly address the caregiver’s immediate need for relief and support.

Choice B rationale

Hiring a private duty nurse could provide the caregiver with some time away from caregiving duties. However, this may not be a feasible option for many caregivers due to the cost associated with private nursing care.

Choice C rationale
Proposing that extended family could return to the area to help provide assistance assumes that such help is available and willing. This may not be the case for many caregivers.

Choice D rationale
Suggesting that social services be contacted to find a respite care facility for the client directly addresses the caregiver’s need for relief and support. Respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to rest and take care of their own needs. This can help to alleviate symptoms of caregiver burnout, such as poor sleep and frequent crying.

A. Offer the client oral fluids B. Feed the client a snack C. Assess the breath sounds D. Empty the urinary drainage bag

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Offering the client oral fluids is important for hydration, but it is not directly related to the care of an indwelling urinary catheter. The UAP can offer fluids to the client, but this action is not specifically tied to the turning of the client or the care of the urinary catheter.
Choice B rationale
Feeding the client a snack is a task that the UAP may perform, but it is not directly related to the care of an indwelling urinary catheter. The UAP can provide a snack to the client, but this action is not specifically tied to the turning of the client or the care of the urinary catheter.
Choice C rationale
Assessing breath sounds is within the scope of practice for a nurse, not a UAP. While it’s important to monitor a client’s respiratory status, this action is not directly related to the care of an indwelling urinary catheter.
Choice D rationale
Emptying the urinary drainage bag is an appropriate action for the UAP to take each time the client is turned. This action helps to prevent infection, maintain accurate intake and output records, and ensure the comfort and dignity of the client.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse instructs an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to turn an immobilized older client with an indwelling urinary catheter every two hours. Which additional action should the nurse instruct the UAP to take each time the client is turned?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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