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 D
Explanation
A) Potatoes: Potatoes are not particularly high in oxalates and can be included in the diet for individuals who have had calcium oxalate renal calculi. They do not significantly contribute to oxalate levels and are generally considered safe for those managing this type of kidney stone.
B) Mushrooms: While mushrooms are a nutritious food, they do not have a high oxalate content compared to other foods. Therefore, they are not a primary concern for individuals managing calcium oxalate stones.
C) Eggs: Eggs are low in oxalates and do not contribute significantly to the formation of calcium oxalate renal stones. They are a good source of protein and can be included in the diet.
D) Spinach: Spinach is high in oxalates and should be limited in the diet of individuals who have experienced calcium oxalate renal calculi. High oxalate foods can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones, so limiting spinach can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Orthostatic hypotension:
Tamsulosin, an alpha-blocker used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy, can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a significant adverse effect. This condition involves a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or fainting. It's important for clients to report these symptoms to their healthcare provider for potential adjustment of medication or additional instructions on managing this side effect.
B) Muscle tenderness:
Muscle tenderness is not commonly associated with tamsulosin. While muscle pain can occur with other medications, it is not a known adverse effect of tamsulosin and does not require immediate notification to the provider in the context of this medication.
C) Decreased heart rate:
Tamsulosin does not typically cause bradycardia (decreased heart rate). This side effect is more associated with beta-blockers or other cardiac medications, rather than alpha-blockers like tamsulosin. Reporting this would be relevant for those other medications but not for tamsulosin.
D) Oliguria:
Oliguria, or decreased urine output, is not a known adverse effect of tamsulosin. Tamsulosin helps improve urine flow in clients with benign prostatic hypertrophy, so reporting oliguria would not be pertinent in this context. Instead, it could indicate another underlying issue.
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