A nurse is assessing a client who has an electrolyte imbalance with an elevated total calcium level of 12.8 mg/dL. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hyperreflexia
Diarrhea
Muscle twitching
Lethargy
The Correct Answer is D
A) Hyperreflexia:
Hyperreflexia is typically associated with low calcium levels (hypocalcemia), not elevated levels. An elevated calcium level often results in reduced neuromuscular excitability, leading to diminished reflexes rather than heightened ones.
B) Diarrhea:
Elevated calcium levels are more likely to cause constipation rather than diarrhea. Hypercalcemia often slows gastrointestinal motility, which can lead to decreased bowel movements and constipation.
C) Muscle twitching:
Muscle twitching is generally a symptom of hypocalcemia rather than hypercalcemia. Elevated calcium levels tend to depress neuromuscular activity, making muscle twitching less likely.
D) Lethargy:
Lethargy is a common symptom of hypercalcemia. High calcium levels can depress the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, confusion, and lethargy. This makes lethargy a likely finding in a client with an elevated total calcium level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Provide a detailed account of the feelings and sounds the client will experience:
While explaining the procedure can be helpful, it might increase anxiety for someone with claustrophobia by focusing on potentially distressing details. It's more effective to use relaxation techniques or medications to manage acute anxiety.
B) Obtain a prescription for clonazepam:
Clonazepam, a benzodiazepine, can help reduce anxiety and is often used to manage claustrophobia during procedures like an MRI. This medication can help the client stay calm and more comfortable during the scan.
C) Obtain a prescription for ziprasidone:
Ziprasidone is an antipsychotic medication and is not typically used for managing situational anxiety or claustrophobia. Using an appropriate anxiolytic like clonazepam is more effective in this context.
D) Inform the client that the time spent in the MRI machine will only be 5 min:
This statement is misleading as MRI scans usually take longer than 5 minutes. Providing inaccurate information can undermine trust and increase anxiety if the procedure takes longer than stated.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Take a tub bath every other day using a mild soap: While maintaining hygiene is important, taking a tub bath is not the most effective way to prevent the spread of MRSA. Showering is usually recommended to help wash away bacteria without sitting in potentially contaminated water.
B) Wash bathroom surfaces daily with isopropyl alcohol: Cleaning surfaces regularly is important, but using isopropyl alcohol specifically for this purpose is not necessary. Household disinfectants that are effective against bacteria, including bleach solutions, can be used to disinfect surfaces.
C) Place the soiled dressing in a sealed plastic bag before placing it in the trash can: This instruction is crucial to prevent the spread of MRSA. Properly containing and disposing of contaminated dressings minimizes the risk of bacteria spreading to other surfaces or individuals.
D) Wash the wound area before washing the surrounding skin: When cleaning wounds, it's typically recommended to clean the surrounding skin first to avoid spreading bacteria from the wound to the clean skin. This reduces the risk of contamination and helps maintain a sterile environment around the wound.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
