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 C
Explanation
A) "After chewing an antacid, wait 1 hour before drinking water.": This is incorrect advice as drinking water after taking an antacid can help wash the medication down and ensure it reaches the stomach effectively. Waiting an hour to drink water is unnecessary and does not benefit GERD management.
B) "Plan to have a bedtime snack each evening.": Having a bedtime snack can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing stomach acid production just before lying down. Clients with GERD should avoid eating close to bedtime to minimize symptoms.
C) "Elevate the head of your bed 12 inches.": Elevating the head of the bed helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep, which can reduce nighttime GERD symptoms. This is a recommended non-pharmacological intervention for managing GERD.
D) "Eat a sugar-free peppermint when symptoms occur.": Peppermint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening GERD symptoms by allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. Therefore, peppermint is not recommended for managing GERD symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Irrigate the affected ear with hydrogen peroxide: Irrigating the ear with hydrogen peroxide is not recommended post-myringotomy. This can cause irritation or infection at the surgical site, which could impede healing and potentially worsen the condition.
B) Drink liquids through a straw: Drinking liquids through a straw can create pressure changes in the ear, which is not advisable post-myringotomy. These pressure changes might affect the healing process of the ear.
C) Swimming is permitted after 1 week: Swimming is typically restricted for a longer period post-myringotomy to prevent water from entering the ear, which can lead to infection or interfere with the healing process.
D) Air travel is allowed after 3 weeks: Air travel restrictions are generally recommended for a few weeks post-myringotomy due to pressure changes that occur during flight, which can affect the ear's healing process. Waiting for 3 weeks allows the surgical site to heal sufficiently, reducing the risk of complications from pressure changes.
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