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 D
Explanation
Thrombocytopenia is a condition where the blood has a low platelet count, which can impair blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clots from forming or growing, but it can also cause or worsen thrombocytopenia and bleeding.
Therefore, heparin is contraindicated for clients who have thrombocytopenia or are at risk of developing it. The other conditions are not contraindications to receiving heparin.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Continuous bladder irrigation (CBI) is a procedure that involves instilling sterile fluid into the bladder through a three-way catheter to prevent clot formation and maintain patency after a TURP surgery. The nurse should monitor the client's urine output closely and report any signs of obstruction such as decreased urine flow, blood clots, or abdominal pain.
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.