A male client with chronic renal failure has a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L. What should nurse Olivia assess first?
Blood pressure
Temperature
Respirations
Pulse rate
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While blood pressure is important, hyperkalemia can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, making the pulse rate the first assessment to ensure the patient's immediate safety.
Choice B reason: Temperature is not directly affected by serum potassium levels and is not the priority in hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason: Respirations are less likely to be affected immediately by hyperkalemia compared to cardiac function.
Choice D reason: A high serum potassium level can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, so assessing the pulse rate is the most critical initial action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Urine output is important but not the priority after administration of fibrinolytic medication.
Choice B reason: Vital signs are routinely monitored but the priority is assessing for any signs of complications from the medication, such as bleeding or stroke.
Choice C reason: The name of the patient's dog is irrelevant to the patient's medical care and assessment.
Choice D reason: Neurological status is the priority to monitor for signs of intracranial hemorrhage, a potential complication of fibrinolytic therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fluid volume status affects preload, not afterload.
Choice B reason: Atrial contraction contributes to filling of the ventricles, not to afterload.
Choice C reason: Afterload is the resistance left ventricular must overcome to circulate blood, which is accurately described as resistance to blood flow.
Choice D reason: Myocardial compliance refers to the elasticity of the heart muscle, which affects how the heart fills, not the resistance it must overcome to eject blood.
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