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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices B, C, and D.
Choice A rationale: Normal saline is not typically used to treat low phosphate levels. It is often used to treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that do not include hypophosphatemia.
Choice B rationale: Potassium phosphate is used to treat low phosphate levels. It directly supplements phosphate levels in the body, making it an appropriate treatment for hypophosphatemia.
Choice C rationale: Additional milk intake can help increase phosphate levels, as milk is a good source of phosphate. This is a suitable recommendation for a patient with low phosphate levels.
Choice D rationale: Increased Vitamin D intake can enhance phosphate absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, making it a beneficial treatment for a patient with low phosphate levels.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choices A, B, and D. Here are the rationales for each choice:
Choice A rationale:
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium. One medium sweet potato contains about 542 mg of potassium, making it a great option for a high-potassium diet.
Choice B rationale:
Bananas are well-known for their high potassium content. A medium banana provides approximately 451 mg of potassium, which is beneficial for maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.
Choice C rationale:
Grapes are not particularly high in potassium compared to other fruits. They contain some potassium, but not enough to be considered a significant source for a high-potassium diet.
Choice D rationale:
Watermelon is a good source of potassium. Two wedges of watermelon contain about 640 mg of potassium, making it a suitable choice for increasing potassium intake.
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