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
Explanation
The action the practical nurse (PN) should take in this situation is to administer a prescribed PRN (as needed) dose of analgesic.
Severe burning pain along the right side of the trunk is a common symptom of herpes zoster (shingles). Managing the client's pain is an important aspect of care to provide comfort and promote healing. Administering a prescribed PRN dose of analgesic will help alleviate the client's pain and improve their overall well-being. It is crucial to follow the client's prescribed medication regimen and provide pain relief as needed.
The other options are not the most appropriate actions in this situation:
B. Notifying the nursing supervisor of uncontrolled pain may be necessary if the client's pain persists despite appropriate interventions. However, the first step should be to administer an analgesic to address the immediate pain.
C. Giving the next prescribed dose of antiviral medication is important in the treatment of herpes zoster, but it does not directly address the client's current severe burning pain. Analgesics are specifically designed to alleviate pain symptoms.
D. Obtaining an oxygen tank for home administration is not indicated for the management of pain associated with herpes zoster. Oxygen therapy is typically used for respiratory or circulatory conditions and would not be the appropriate intervention for the client's symptom of severe burning pain.
Correct Answer is ["D","F","G"]
Explanation
Based on the provided information, the following components should be included in the treatment regimen for this client:
- Oral anti-diabetic:
While oral medications are common in managing type 2 diabetes, the current information does not suggest immediate initiation of pharmacotherapy based solely on the random blood sugar result without further evaluation.
- Weight-reduction treatment: With a BMI of 28, the client is considered overweight. Weight reduction is an important aspect of managing diabetes and improving overall health. The treatment regimen should include strategies to promote weight loss, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity.
- Exercise planning: Regular exercise is beneficial for managing diabetes and promoting overall health. The treatment regimen should include an exercise plan tailored to the client's abilities and preferences. This may involve aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
- Nutrition education: Nutrition plays a crucial role in diabetes management. The client should receive education on healthy eating habits, portion control, carbohydrate counting, and the importance of a balanced diet. The treatment regimen should include ongoing nutrition education and support.
The following options should not be included in the treatment regimen for this client:
- Short-acting insulin: Based on the information provided, there is no indication for the immediate use of short-acting insulin in this client.
- Long-acting insulin: Similar to short-acting insulin, there is no indication for the immediate use of long-acting insulin in this client.
- Extra carbohydrates: Extra carbohydrates may not be necessary for this client unless prescribed by a healthcare professional to manage hypoglycemia or specific dietary needs.
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