A client's serum potassium level is approaching 7 mEq/L. Which physical assessment would the nurse prioritize based on this serum lab value?

Cardiac

Gastrointestinal

Respiratory

Neurologic

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Hyperkalemia can have significant cardiac effects, potentially leading to life-threatening arrhythmias such as bradycardia, heart block, ventricular tachycardia, or ventricular fibrillation. As potassium levels rise, it affects the electrical conduction of the heart, leading to changes in the ECG (electrocardiogram) and potentially causing fatal arrhythmias.

B. While hyperkalemia primarily affects the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal symptoms can also occur. These may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. However, these symptoms are typically less severe compared to cardiac manifestations. Monitoring for gastrointestinal symptoms helps in assessing overall clinical status but is not as critical as assessing cardiac function in the context of hyperkalemia.

C. Respiratory symptoms are not typically associated with hyperkalemia unless severe acid-base disturbances are present. Potassium imbalance itself does not directly affect respiratory function. Therefore, while it is important to assess respiratory status in any client, it is not the priority in the context of hyperkalemia.

D. Hyperkalemia can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and even paralysis in severe cases. However, neurologic symptoms usually occur at higher potassium levels or in the presence of significant electrolyte imbalances affecting nerve function.

Monitoring for neurologic symptoms is important but is generally secondary to assessing cardiac status in the context of approaching severe hyperkalemia.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

D. Assessing the client is the nurse's first responsibility when a medication error is suspected. The nurse should promptly assess the client's condition to determine if any harm has occurred as a result of the error. This assessment includes vital signs, physical assessment, and evaluation of any signs or symptoms related to the medication error.

A. Documenting the medication error is important for accurate record-keeping and subsequent investigation. However, it should not be the nurse's first action. The priority should be to assess and address any potential harm to the client.

B. Calling the physician may be necessary depending on the severity of the error and the client's condition. However, it is not the first responsibility of the nurse in response to a suspected medication error. The nurse's primary concern should be the immediate assessment and management of the client's condition.

C. Notifying the supervisor or charge nurse is an important step to report the incident and seek guidance on next steps. Supervisors can assist in managing the situation, implementing corrective measures, and ensuring appropriate documentation and reporting procedures are followed. This is typically one of the first actions after ensuring the client's safety.

A. hypovolemic. B. bradycardic. C. deficient. D. thready.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

D. A "thready" pulse is weak and difficult to palpate. It feels like a fine thread or string under the fingertips and suggests poor cardiac output or decreased peripheral perfusion. A thready pulse is palpable but weak, indicating inadequate stroke volume with each heartbeat.

A. Hypovolemic refers to a state of decreased blood volume, which can lead to a weak and rapid pulse due to reduced blood flow through the arteries. However, it does not specifically describe the quality of the pulse that is palpable.

B. Bradycardia refers to a slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute in adults. A bradycardic pulse may be slow but can still be strong or weak depending on the underlying cause. It does not specifically describe the quality of a weak but palpable pulse.

C. "Deficient" is not a commonly used term to describe the quality of a pulse. It does not provide specific information about the palpable nature or strength of the pulse.

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A client's serum potassium level is approaching 7 mEq/L. Which physical assessment would the nurse prioritize based on this serum lab value?

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