A client with alcoholism is admitted to a medical-surgical unit with a serum magnesium level of 0.9 mEq/L. Which clinical manifestations would the nurse expect to find in this client?
Tremors and twitching
Positive Chvostek's sign
Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Polyuria and flank pain
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer. Tremors and twitching are signs of hypomagnesemia, which is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many enzymatic reactions and neuromuscular functions. A low magnesium level can cause hyperexcitability of the nerves and muscles, leading to involuntary movements and spasms. Alcoholism can cause hypomagnesemia by reducing the absorption and increasing the excretion of magnesium.
Choice B reason: Positive Chvostek's sign is not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Calcium is another mineral that is important for the function of nerves and muscles. A low calcium level can cause tetany, which is a condition of sustained muscle contraction. Chvostek's sign is a test that involves tapping the facial nerve in front of the ear and observing for a twitching of the facial muscles. A positive Chvostek's sign indicates hypocalcemia, not hypomagnesemia.
Choice C reason: Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypermagnesemia, which is a high level of magnesium in the blood. A high magnesium level can cause hyporeflexia, which is a reduced or absent response to stimuli. Magnesium has a sedative effect on the nerves and muscles, and can inhibit the transmission of impulses. Hypermagnesemia can be caused by excessive intake or impaired excretion of magnesium.
Choice D reason: Polyuria and flank pain are not signs of hypomagnesemia, but of kidney problems, such as infection, stones, or failure. Polyuria is the production of abnormally large amounts of urine, and flank pain is the pain in the side or back below the ribs. These symptoms can indicate damage or inflammation of the kidneys, which can affect the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. Hypomagnesemia does not directly cause polyuria or flank pain, but it can be a result of kidney dysfunction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Having a urinary output of greater than 30 mL per hour for 24 hours is not the most appropriate outcome for the problem of impaired tissue perfusion. This outcome is more relevant for the problem of fluid volume excess or renal impairment, which are not the case for this client.
Choice B reason: Discussing which lifestyle modifications will be necessary to maintain health is not the most appropriate outcome for the problem of impaired tissue perfusion. This outcome is more relevant for the problem of knowledge deficit or risk for recurrence, which are not the priority for this client.
Choice C reason: Expressing no complaints of chest discomfort or shortness of breath is the most appropriate outcome for the problem of impaired tissue perfusion. This outcome indicates that the client's cardiac output and oxygen delivery are adequate and that the interventions are effective.
Choice D reason: Having clear breath sounds bilaterally upon auscultation is not the most appropriate outcome for the problem of impaired tissue perfusion. This outcome is more relevant for the problem of impaired gas exchange or pulmonary congestion, which are not the case for this client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Preparing for endotracheal intubation and ventilatory support is not the action that the nurse should take for a client with thyroid storm. This intervention is indicated for clients with respiratory failure or impending airway obstruction, which are not the case for this client.
Choice B reason: Providing continuous sedation for pain relief is not the action that the nurse should take for a client with thyroid storm. This intervention may worsen the client's condition by suppressing the respiratory drive and lowering the blood pressure. The nurse should administer antithyroid medications, beta blockers, and corticosteroids as prescribed to reduce the thyroid hormone levels and the associated symptoms.
Choice C reason: Initiating cardiac monitoring and assessing for reflex bradycardia is not the action that the nurse should take for a client with thyroid storm. This intervention is indicated for clients with hyperkalemia or digoxin toxicity, which are not the case for this client. The nurse should monitor the client's heart rate and rhythm, but not expect a reflex bradycardia, which is a paradoxical slowing of the heart rate in response to a rapid rise in blood pressure.
Choice D reason: Maintaining IV fluid infusion and assessing adequacy of hydration is the action that the nurse should take for a client with thyroid storm. This intervention is indicated for clients with thyroid storm, as they are at risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance due to increased metabolic rate, fever, sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea. The nurse should administer isotonic fluids, such as normal saline, and monitor the client's fluid intake and output, urine specific gravity, and serum electrolytes.
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