A nurse is caring for a client who has a serum potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L. The provider prescribes polystyrene sulfonate. If this medication is effective, the nurse should expect which of the following changes on the client's ECG?

Restoration of QRS Complex amplitude.

Shortening of P-wave duration.

Widening of the QRS complex.

Reduction of T-wave amplitude.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

The correct answer is choice D: Reduction of T-wave amplitude.

Choice A rationale:

The amplitude of the QRS complex is not directly affected by changes in serum potassium levels. It represents ventricular depolarization, and its restoration would not be an expected outcome of polystyrene sulfonate treatment

Choice B rationale:

Shortening of the P-wave duration is not an expected change with polystyrene sulfonate treatment. The P-wave represents atrial depolarization, which is not significantly impacted by the administration of this medication

Choice C rationale:

Widening of the QRS complex is associated with high serum potassium levels. The goal of polystyrene sulfonate treatment is to lower potassium levels and, thus, return the QRS complex to its normal width

Choice D rationale:

Polystyrene sulfonate aims to reduce serum potassium levels. When effective, this should result in a reduction of T-wave amplitude, which is a common ECG change seen with hyperkalemia

In conclusion, choice D is the correct answer, as a reduction in T-wave amplitude would be the expected change on the client's ECG if polystyrene sulfonate effectively lowers their serum potassium level.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Widened QRS Complexes.

Choice A rationale:

Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes are not typical findings in respiratory acidosis. They are more commonly associated with conditions like hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia.

Choice B rationale:

Warm, flushed skin is not directly related to respiratory acidosis. It is not a typical manifestation of this acid-base imbalance.

Choice C rationale:

Widened QRS complexes on an ECG are characteristic findings in respiratory acidosis. Acidosis can lead to changes in the electrical conduction of the heart, resulting in QRS complex widening.

Choice D rationale:

Bounding peripheral pulses are not directly associated with respiratory acidosis. They may be seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia but are not specific to respiratory acidosis. Remember, always interpret lab results and clinical findings in the context of the patient's overall condition, medical history, and other relevant factors to provide the best care possible.

A. Lethargy. B. Kussmaul's respirations. C. Circumoral paresthesia. D. Bicarbonate excess. E. Flushing

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

The correct answer is choice A, C, and D.

Choice A rationale:

Lethargy is a common symptom of metabolic alkalosis due to the body’s attempt to compensate for the altered pH balance, leading to decreased energy levels and fatigue.

Choice B rationale:

Kussmaul’s respirations are typically associated with metabolic acidosis, not alkalosis. These deep, labored breaths are the body’s way of trying to expel excess carbon dioxide to correct acidosis.

Choice C rationale:

Circumoral paresthesia, or tingling around the mouth, is a symptom of metabolic alkalosis. This occurs due to changes in calcium ion concentration affecting nerve function.

Choice D rationale:

Bicarbonate excess is a direct cause of metabolic alkalosis. Elevated bicarbonate levels in the blood lead to an increased pH, resulting in alkalosis.

Choice E rationale:

Flushing is not a typical symptom of metabolic alkalosis. It is more commonly associated with conditions that cause vasodilation or increased blood flow to the skin.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has a serum potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L. The provider prescribes polystyrene sulfonate. If this medication is effective, the nurse should expect which of the following changes on the client's ECG?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reviewing the arterial blood gas results for a client in the ICU who has kidney failure and determines the client has respiratory acidosis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has metabolic alkalosis. For which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse monitor? (Select all that apply.).

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

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