A nurse is assisting with the care of a 14-year old client in the emergency department (ED) who has anorexia nervosa.
Physical Examination
Client appears preoccupied and displays poor concentration but is oriented X3. Client has very thin appearance, measuring 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 42.6 kg (94 lb). This calculates to 81% of ideal target weight. Client skin color is pallor with capillary refill greater than 2 seconds. When asked about fainting, client minimizes it and comments. "I was just tired. it was nothing."
Which of the following 5 findings require immediate follow-up by the nurse?
Sodium level
Blood pressure
Respiratory rate
Capillary refill
Glucose level
Phosphate level
Magnesium level
Correct Answer : A,B,D
A. Sodium level: Correct. Sodium imbalances can have serious consequences, including neurological symptoms. Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte imbalance seen in anorexia nervosa.
B. Blood pressure: Correct. Abnormal blood pressure, especially low blood pressure, can indicate cardiovascular compromise, which is a concern in severe cases of anorexia nervosa.
C. Respiratory rate: Not selected. While monitoring respiratory rate is important, the client's pallor and capillary refill suggest potential issues with peripheral perfusion, making capillary refill more urgent.
D. Capillary refill: Correct. Prolonged capillary refill time is a measure of peripheral perfusion and may indicate poor tissue perfusion, requiring immediate attention.
E. Glucose level: Not selected. While monitoring glucose levels is important, hypoglycemia might not be an immediate concern in this scenario. The client's neurological symptoms may be more related to electrolyte imbalances.
F. Phosphate level: Not selected. Monitoring phosphate levels is important, but severe abnormalities may not require immediate follow-up unless other critical issues are addressed first.
G. Magnesium level: Not selected. Magnesium imbalances are significant but may not require immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are noted.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
The nurse should first address the client's cardiac status followed by the client's Nutritional status
Explanation:
- Cardiac status: Potassium levels are critically low, which can significantly impact cardiac function.
- Nutritional status: The client has multiple electrolyte imbalances, which could be related to nutrition or absorption issues.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"D","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
The client is at risk for developing Serotonin syndrome due to the Client's intake of St. John's wort
Explanation:
St. John's wort is an herbal supplement that can interact with certain medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other medications that increase serotonin levels. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by an excess of serotonin in the body.
In the given scenario, the nurse should identify:
Condition: The client's intake of St. John's wort
Client Finding: At risk for developing serotonin syndrome
This is because the use of St. John's wort, combined with medications that affect serotonin levels, increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. The nurse should monitor for symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as changes in vital signs, hyperthermia, altered mental status, and neuromuscular abnormalities. If serotonin syndrome is suspected, medical attention should be sought promptly.
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.