A client’s bloodwork indicates that he has severe hypokalemia.
What is a priority nursing intervention?
Place the client on a cardiac monitor.
Administer a laxative as ordered.
Place the client on seizure precautions.
Restrict high potassium foods.
The Correct Answer is A
This is because hypokalemia (low potassium level in the blood) can cause abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia) that can be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention. A cardiac monitor can help detect and treat any arrhythmia that may occur.
Choice B is wrong because administering a laxative can worsen hypokalemia by causing more potassium loss through the digestive tract. Laxative use is one of the possible causes of hypokalemia.
Choice C is wrong because placing the client on seizure precautions is not a priority intervention for hypokalemia. Seizures are not a common symptom of hypokalemia, although muscle weakness and cramps may occur.
Choice D is wrong because restricting high potassium foods is not a priority intervention for hypokalemia. In fact, increasing potassium intake through foods or supplements may be helpful in less serious cases of hypokalemia. However, this should be done according to the doctor’s recommendation and with careful monitoring of blood potassium levels.
Normal blood potassium levels for an adult range from 3.6 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). A very low potassium level (less than 2.5 mmol/L) can be life threatening.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
According to the National Institute on Aging, health care providers play an important role in recognizing and reporting elder abuse. They have a legal and ethical obligation to report any suspected cases of abuse to the appropriate authorities. Reporting is not voluntary for health care workers.
Choice A is wrong because reporting is not voluntary for health care workers. Choice C is wrong because civil liability cannot result if the abuse can’t be proven. Health care providers are protected by immunity laws when they report suspected abuse in good faith.
Choice D is wrong because evidence of abuse does not need to be collected prior to reporting. Health care providers should report any signs or symptoms of abuse, even if they are not conclusive.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is because people with COPD are more likely to catch respiratory infections such as colds, flu and pneumonia, which can worsen their symptoms and cause further lung damage. An influenza vaccine can help prevent flu and reduce the risk of complications.
Choice B. A broad-spectrum antibiotic is wrong because antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral ones. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for COPD exacerbations caused by bacterial infections, but not for prevention.
Choice C. A bronchodilator is wrong because bronchodilators are medications that relax the muscles around the airways and make breathing easier. They are used to treat the symptoms of COPD, but they do not prevent respiratory infections.
Choice D. A corticosteroid is wrong because corticosteroids are anti inflammatory drugs that reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways. They are also used to treat the symptoms of COPD, but they do not prevent respiratory infections. In fact, long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of infections by suppressing the immune system.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.