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 ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is: a. Paper tape, b. Small gauze pad, and d. Exam gloves.
Choice A: Paper tape
Reason: Paper tape is used to secure the gauze pad over the site after the saline lock is removed. It is gentle on the skin and helps to keep the gauze in place, preventing any bleeding or infection at the site.
Choice B: Small gauze pad
Reason: A small gauze pad is essential to apply pressure to the site after the saline lock is removed. This helps to stop any bleeding and provides a clean, sterile covering for the site.
Choice C: Sterile gloves
Reason: Sterile gloves are not necessary for this procedure. Exam gloves are sufficient to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection during the removal of the saline lock.
Choice D: Exam gloves
Reason: Exam gloves are used to maintain hygiene and prevent infection during the procedure. They provide adequate protection for both the nurse and the patient.
Choice E: Three mL syringe
Reason: A three mL syringe is not required for the removal of a saline lock. Syringes are typically used for flushing the saline lock, not for its removal.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The practical nurse (PN) should include the following actions when assessing a client for signs and symptoms of fluid volume excess:
- Palpate the rate and volume of the pulse: Fluid volume excess can lead to an increased pulse rate and bounding pulse due to the increased blood volume.
- Measure body weight at the same time daily: Monitoring daily weights can help identify fluid retention or weight gain, which can be indicative of fluid volume excess.
- Observe the color and amount of urine: Changes in urine color and output can provide information about kidney function and fluid balance. In fluid volume excess, urine output may be increased and urine may appear pale or diluted.
The following options are incorrect:
- Check fingernails for the presence of clubbing: Clubbing of the fingernails is not directly related to fluid volume excess. It is a finding commonly associated with chronic respiratory conditions and certain cardiac disorders.
- Compare muscle strength of both arms: Assessing muscle strength is not directly related to fluid volume excess. It is more relevant when evaluating neurological or musculoskeletal conditions.
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