A nurse is caring for a client who arrives at the emergency department and reports vomiting and diarrhea for the past 3 days. The client's serum potassium level is 2.8 mEq/L. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?
Listen to the client's bowel sounds.
Initiate cardiac monitoring for the client.
Check the client's hand grasps.
Administer an IV potassium drip.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Listening to the client's bowel sounds should not be implemented. It is important for assessing the gastrointestinal status, but the priority in this situation is to address the potential cardiac complications of hypokalaemia.
Choice B reason:
Initiating cardiac monitoring for the client should be implemented. A serum potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is significantly low (normal range is typically around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Low potassium levels, known as hypokalaemia, can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias and other complications. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize cardiac monitoring to assess for any potential changes or abnormalities in the client's heart rhythm due to the low potassium levels.
Choice C reason:
Checking the client's hand grasps should not be implemented. It is a test for muscle strength and can be indicative of hypokalaemia, but initiating cardiac monitoring is more critical at this point.
Choice D reason:
Administering an IV potassium drip may be necessary, but initiating cardiac monitoring takes precedence as the first action to ensure the client's heart rhythm is stable before addressing the potassium imbalance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Capillary blood glucose level 164 mg/dl is appropriate. A capillary blood glucose level of 164 mg/dl is above the target range for blood glucose control. In a client receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN), it's essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely, as hyperglycaemia can lead to complications. The nurse should intervene by notifying the healthcare provider and following the prescribed protocols for managing elevated blood glucose levels in a client with acute pancreatitis receiving TPN.
Choice B Reason:
Crackles in bilateral lower lobes is inappropriate. Crackles in the lungs could be indicative of fluid accumulation or inflammation, which can occur in various conditions. While it should be monitored, it may not require immediate intervention related to the TPN.
Choice C Reason:
WBC count 13,000/mm is inappropriate-. An elevated white blood cell count could be related to the acute pancreatitis itself or other factors. It might require further assessment and monitoring but may not be directly related to the TPN.
Choice D Reason:
Right upper quadrant pain is inappropriate- The client's right upper quadrant pain might be related to the acute pancreatitis or another cause, but it does not specifically indicate a need to intervene with the TPN at this moment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
"use my heating pad on a low setting to keep my feet warm". This statement is incorrect. Using a heating pad, especially on a low setting, is not recommended for individuals with PAD. It can lead to burns or skin damage due to reduced sensation in the feet.
Choice B reason:
"rest in my recliner with my feet elevated for about an hour every afternoon" This statement is incorrect. While elevating the feet can help with blood circulation, it's important to avoid prolonged periods of inactivity. Regular physical activity is important for improving circulation.
Choice C reason:
"soak my feet in hot water before trimming my toenails". This statement is incorrect. Soaking feet in hot water can cause burns or damage to the skin for individuals with reduced sensation due to PAD. Trimming toenails should be done carefully and without soaking to prevent injury and infection.
Choice D reason:
"apply a lubricating lotion to the cracked areas on the soles of my feet every morning “This statement is correct. Clients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are at risk of reduced blood circulation to the extremities, including the feet. Proper foot care is crucial to prevent complications such as non-healing wounds or infections. Applying a lubricating lotion to cracked areas can help keep the skin moisturized and prevent further complications.
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