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?
Administer an IV potassium drip.
Listen to the client's bowel sounds.
Check the client's hand grasps.
Initiate cardiac monitoring for the client.
The Correct Answer is D
The client has hypokalemia, which is a low level of potassium in the blood. Hypokalemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should initiate cardiac monitoring first to assess the client's heart rhythm and rate, and intervene if any abnormalities are detected. Administering an IV potassium drip is an appropriate intervention for hypokalemia, but it is not the first priority. Listening to the client's bowel sounds and checking the client's hand grasps are also relevant assessments for hypokalemia, as it can cause decreased bowel motility and muscle weakness, but they are not as urgent as cardiac monitoring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Metformin is an oral medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It should be withheld before and after a procedure that requires IV contrast dye because it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious condition caused by the buildup of lactic acid in the blood. The other medications are not contraindicated with IV contrast dye and can be given as scheduled.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Bananas are one of the fruits that contain proteins similar to those found in natural rubber latex, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This is called latex-fruit syndrome and can also occur with other fruits such as avocado, kiwi, chestnut, and papaya. The client should inform the surgical team about their banana allergy and avoid contact with latex products such as gloves, catheters, syringes, and bandages.
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.