A nurse in an urgent care clinic is collecting data from a client who reports having diarrhea for the past 3 days. Which of the following findings indicates hypokalemia?
Pitting edema
Diplopia
Muscle weakness
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is C
A nurse collecting data from a client who reports having diarrhea for the past 3 days should identify that muscle weakness is a symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition in which the blood potassium level is low and can be caused by excessive fluid loss through diarrhea. Potassium helps regulate muscle contractions, so when blood potassium levels are low, muscles may produce weaker contractions which result in muscle weakness.
The other options are not typical symptoms of hypokalemia.
a) Pitting edema is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia.
b) Diplopia is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia.
d) Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a typical symptom of hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Answer: B. Compare the result with the baseline reading
Rationale:
A. Check the client's heart rate on the oximeter:
Although checking the heart rate may provide context for assessing the client's overall status, it does not address the primary concern of the low oxygen saturation. Understanding the client's baseline saturation level takes priority to guide further actions effectively.
B. Compare the result with the baseline reading:
Comparing the reading with the client's baseline is essential. For clients with chronic respiratory conditions, baseline oxygen levels may naturally be lower. Identifying if this 88% saturation is typical or unusual for the client helps determine the need for further intervention or adjustment.
C. Decrease the amount of oxygen administered:
Reducing oxygen flow when the saturation is low is contraindicated, as it could worsen hypoxia. Instead, increasing oxygen may be warranted if the reading remains below the baseline after further assessment.
D. Perform another reading while the client ambulates:
Repeating the reading during ambulation may worsen hypoxia and is not ideal without understanding baseline oxygenation at rest. Re-evaluation at rest or in a different position may be more appropriate for accurate assessment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A nurse collecting data for a client following electroconvulsive therapy should expect that the client may experience confusion as an adverse effect. Confusion is a common side effect of electroconvulsive therapy and can last for minutes to hours after treatment.
The other options are not typical adverse effects of electroconvulsive therapy.
a) Vomitingis not a typical adverse effect of electroconvulsive therapy.
c) Incontinenceis not a typical adverse effect of electroconvulsive therapy.
d) Tinnitusis not a typical adverse effect of electroconvulsive therapy.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today