A male client with acute kidney injury (AKI) is scheduled for his first hemodialysis treatment and asks the practical nurse (PN) how the treatments will be evaluated for effectiveness. The PN explains that blood samples will be collected for analysis. Which laboratory value should the PN explain as the best indicator of each hemodialysis?
Elevated potassium.
Decreased calcium.
Lowered hemoglobin.
Decreased creatinine.
The Correct Answer is D
Hemodialysis is a procedure used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. One of the waste products that accumulate in the blood during kidney dysfunction is creatinine. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, and its levels in the blood are normally regulated and eliminated by the kidneys. In AKI, the kidneys are not able to effectively filter and eliminate creatinine, leading to elevated levels in the blood. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess creatinine from the blood, resulting in decreased creatinine levels.
A- Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) are common in AKI and can be life-threatening. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess potassium from the blood, restoring normal levels.
However, the best indicator of the effectiveness of hemodialysis in managing hyperkalemia would be monitoring the potassium levels before and after the session rather than considering it as the "best" indicator.
B- Decreased calcium levels can occur in kidney dysfunction due to impaired activation of vitamin D and decreased absorption of calcium from the intestines. While hemodialysis can help restore calcium levels, it may not be the primary laboratory value used to evaluate the effectiveness of each session.
C- Lowered hemoglobin levels can be seen in AKI due to various factors, including decreased production of red blood cells and blood loss. Hemodialysis can help remove waste products and excess fluid, but it may not directly address the underlying causes of lowered hemoglobin levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This statement suggests that the client has found sources of emotional support and is relying on them to cope with the challenges posed by his prognosis. Acceptance of a prognosis often involves coming to terms with the reality of the situation and finding ways to manage the emotional and practical aspects of it. By acknowledging the support he has received from his faith and family, the client demonstrates a willingness to lean on these resources for strength and comfort.
The other statements do not necessarily reflect acceptance of the prognosis:
A. "I think I had this disease for a long time, but the doctor did not find it." This statement implies a sense of disbelief or frustration with the delay in diagnosing the disease, rather than acceptance of the prognosis itself.
C. "I understand this is a disease that occurs mostly in older men." While this statement shows some awareness of the disease, it does not necessarily indicate acceptance. It may simply reflect an understanding of the demographics of prostate cancer without addressing the client's personal feelings or coping mechanisms.
D. "I do not have any use for those who say this disease is going to win." This statement may indicate resistance or defiance towards the negative outlook associated with the disease. It suggests a desire to maintain a positive attitude but does not necessarily reflect a full acceptance of the prognosis and its implications.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels drop below normal levels. It is commonly associated with diabetes mellitus and can result from various factors such as excessive insulin or oral hypoglycemic medication, delayed or missed meals, increased physical activity, or alcohol consumption.
Tremors, or shaking hands, are one of the early signs of hypoglycemia. They can occur due to the brain's response to low blood glucose levels. Other early signs of hypoglycemia may include sweating, palpitations, anxiety, hunger, and weakness.
A. Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not typically associated with hypoglycemia. It is more commonly seen in conditions such as hyperglycemia or diabetes insipidus.
C. Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a characteristic sign of hypoglycemia. It can occur in some cases of severe hypoglycemia, but it is not an early sign.
D. Difficulty swallowing is not directly related to hypoglycemia. It may be caused by other factors such as neurological or muscular conditions, esophageal disorders, or structural abnormalities in the throat or esophagus.
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