A nurse is administering potassium chloride via IV infusion to a client who has severe hypokalemia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Check the infusion site at least every 4 hr.
Start the infusion at 30 mEq/hr.
Assess the client for a positive Chvostek sign.
Monitor the client for adequate urine output.
The Correct Answer is D
Monitor the client for adequate urine output.
When administering potassium chloride via IV infusion to a client who has severe hypokalemia, it is important for the nurse to monitor the client’s urine output to ensure that their kidneys are functioning properly and that they are able to excrete excess potassium.
Choice A is incorrect because the infusion site should be checked more frequently than every 4 hours.
Choice B is incorrect because the maximum recommended rate of infusion for potassium chloride is 10 mEq/hr.
Choice C is incorrect because Chvostek’s sign is used to assess for hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Lithium. Lithium is a medication that has been associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes insipidus. This is because lithium can interfere with the function of the kidneys and their ability to respond to antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which regulates the balance of fluids in the body.
Atorvastatin (choice B) is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
Propranolol (choice A) is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
Ranitidine (choice C) is a medication used to reduce stomach acid production and has not been associated with an increased risk of diabetes insipidus.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The nurse should attend to the client who has thrombocytopenia and reports a nosebleed first.
Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet count, which increases the risk of bleeding.
A nosebleed can be a sign of significant bleeding, and it is important for the nurse to assess the severity and take appropriate action to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.
Although the other clients also require nursing care, their conditions are not as urgent as the client with thrombocytopenia and a nosebleed.
The client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and an oxygen saturation of 89% may require oxygen therapy or other interventions to improve respiratory function, but the situation is not immediately life-threatening.
The client with left-sided paralysis and slurred speech from a prior stroke may require ongoing care and rehabilitation, but there is no indication of an acute change in their condition.
The client with multiple sclerosis and ataxia and vertigo may require assistance with mobility and balance, but their symptoms do not pose an immediate threat to their health.
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