A nurse is assessing a client who is taking chlorothiazide sodium. The nurse recognizes which of the following as a manifestation of hypokalemia?
Diarrhea
Hypertensive crisis
Shallow respirations
Hyperreflexia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypokalemia causes constipation and not diarrhea.
B. Hypertensive crisis is not typically associated with hypokalemia but may be a side effect of certain antihypertensive medications.
C. Hypokalemia can affect the function of the muscles, including the respiratory muscles, leading to shallow respirations, weakness, and paralysis.
D. Hyperreflexia is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia; it is more associated with hyperkalemia.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The nurse should not withhold the dose without consulting the provider, especially with a low potassium level.
B. A client who is receiving diuretic therapy may lose potassium through urine and develop hypokalemia, which is a low level of potassium in the blood. Hypokalemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and fatigue. The normal range of serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates mild hypokalemia and requires potassium supplementation
C. While it's important to verify lab results, the nurse should first administer the prescribed dose of KCL since the patient has mild hypokalemia.
D. This is important but it may delay the treatment of hypokalemia and increase the risk of complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While researching information is valuable, using the facility's policies and procedures is the best source for specific, evidence-based guidelines.
B. An AP may not be qualified to provide accurate information on removing an IV catheter.
C. The facility's policies and procedures manual is a reliable source of evidence-based guidelines for nursing care.
D. While journal articles can provide information, the facility's policies and procedures manual is often more immediately relevant and specific.
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