A nurse is caring for a client who has an electrolyte imbalance with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. Which of the following should the nurse administer?
A potassium supplement
A fiber supplement
An anticonvulsant
A diuretic
The Correct Answer is D
A) A potassium supplement: Administering a potassium supplement would be inappropriate for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. This level is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hyperkalemia, which can have serious effects on cardiac function. Increasing potassium intake could exacerbate the condition.
B) A fiber supplement: While fiber supplements can be beneficial for overall digestive health, they do not directly address or correct an electrolyte imbalance like hyperkalemia. They are not relevant in managing elevated potassium levels.
C) An anticonvulsant: Anticonvulsants are used to manage seizure activity and are not indicated for treating hyperkalemia. They do not have any role in the regulation or management of potassium levels in the body.
D) A diuretic: Diuretics, particularly loop diuretics, are often used to help manage hyperkalemia by promoting the excretion of potassium through urine. This helps lower the elevated potassium levels in the blood and reduce the risk of complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, administering a diuretic is an appropriate intervention for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Orthostatic hypotension: Anemia often results in decreased blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity, which can cause orthostatic hypotension. This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing, leading to dizziness or fainting.
B) Clubbing of the nail beds: Clubbing is typically associated with chronic hypoxia and long-term respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, rather than anemia. It involves the enlargement of the fingertips and changes in the angle of the nail bed.
C) Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. It is not a common manifestation of anemia.
D) Heat intolerance: Heat intolerance is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism or other metabolic disorders rather than anemia. Individuals with anemia are more likely to experience cold intolerance due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) A client refuses to discuss treatment options with her provider following a terminal diagnosis: This behavior exemplifies denial, the first stage in Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief. In this stage, individuals are unable to accept the reality of their situation, often refusing to acknowledge the facts and avoiding discussions that might confirm the severity of their condition.
B) A client promises a higher power to live a better life if his cancer is healed: This illustrates the bargaining stage, where individuals attempt to negotiate or make deals with a higher power or fate to reverse or delay the loss or illness. They hope that by promising to change their behavior, they can influence the outcome.
C) A client withdraws from his social network following the death of a loved one: Withdrawal from social interactions is indicative of the depression stage, where individuals may feel profound sadness, hopelessness, and a desire to isolate themselves as they process the magnitude of their loss.
D) A client yells at healthcare staff following the death of a loved one: This behavior is characteristic of the anger stage, where individuals express their frustration and helplessness through anger, often directed at people around them, including healthcare providers. This stage reflects the struggle to find meaning and control in the face of loss.
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