A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's potassium level is 5.8 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Confusion
Abdominal cramps
Positive Chvostek's sign
Decreased bowel motility
The Correct Answer is B
A. Confusion can occur with electrolyte imbalances, including hyperkalemia, but it is not the most common or specific symptom associated with elevated potassium levels. More typical symptoms are related to muscle and gastrointestinal function.
B. Abdominal cramps are a common finding in clients with hyperkalemia (potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L). Elevated potassium can lead to increased gastrointestinal motility and irritability, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
C. Positive Chvostek's sign indicates hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) and is not associated with hyperkalemia. This sign reflects increased neuromuscular excitability due to low calcium levels, so it would not be expected in this scenario.
D. Decreased bowel motility is typically associated with hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium levels can cause increased bowel motility and may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and cramping. Therefore, decreased bowel motility would not be an expected finding in this case.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Completely undress the toddler. Toddlers may feel vulnerable when fully undressed. It is best to remove clothing gradually, assessing one area at a time, to promote comfort and reduce anxiety.
B. Allow the toddler to handle the equipment. Letting the toddler touch and explore medical equipment, such as a stethoscope or otoscope, helps reduce fear and increases cooperation during the examination. This approach fosters a sense of control and familiarity.
C. Thoroughly explain each procedure to the toddler. Toddlers have limited understanding and attention spans. Simple, short explanations and distraction techniques are more effective in easing anxiety than detailed explanations.
D. Start the examination with routine immunizations. Painful procedures, such as vaccinations, should be saved for the end of the visit to prevent distress and resistance that could interfere with the rest of the examination.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Case manager. A case manager assists clients in accessing community resources, including financial assistance programs such as WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) and other social services that provide formula for infants. This referral ensures the client receives the necessary support to meet her baby's nutritional needs.
B. Primary care provider. A primary care provider focuses on the client’s medical care rather than financial or social concerns. While they may provide guidance on infant nutrition, they are not the best resource for addressing the client’s financial difficulties in obtaining formula.
C. Nutritionist. A nutritionist provides dietary guidance but does not handle financial assistance programs. They may educate the client on proper infant feeding, but they cannot directly assist with obtaining formula for a client who cannot afford it.
D. Pediatric nurse practitioner. A pediatric nurse practitioner specializes in infant health but does not typically manage financial concerns. They may assess the baby’s growth and nutritional needs but would refer the client to a case manager or social services for formula assistance.
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