A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic kidney disease (CKD) and states she has heartburn.
The provider prescribes aluminum hydroxide. The client asks, "Why can't I just take the antacid magaldrate my husband has at home?" The nurse explains to the client that aluminum hydroxide is the preferred antacid because it lowers which of the following?
Serum magnesium levels
Serum phosphorus levels
Serum potassium levels
Serum calcium levels
The Correct Answer is B
A. Aluminum hydroxide can lead to increased serum magnesium levels, but this is not the reason for its preference in chronic kidney disease.
B. Aluminum hydroxide is preferred because it binds to dietary phosphate, reducing serum phosphorus levels in patients with chronic kidney disease who are prone to hyperphosphatemia.
C. Aluminum hydroxide does not significantly affect serum potassium levels.
D. Aluminum hydroxide can lead to decreased serum calcium levels due to binding, but this is not the primary reason for its preference in chronic kidney disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. In respiratory acidosis, the pH would be lower than normal due to an excess of carbon dioxide.
B. PaCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide) would be elevated in respiratory acidosis because of inadequate ventilation leading to CO2 retention.
C. Potassium levels may vary depending on other factors but are not directly related to respiratory acidosis.
D. HCO3 (bicarbonate) levels may be normal or increased compensatorily in chronic respiratory acidosis, not necessarily decreased.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormone.
Consequently, free T4 levels are typically decreased.
B. Although serum T3 levels may also decrease in primary hypothyroidism due to impaired thyroid function, TSH is the primary marker used for diagnosis and monitoring.
C. Similarly, serum T4 levels may decrease in primary hypothyroidism due to decreased synthesis by the thyroid gland.
D. In primary hypothyroidism, the anterior pituitary gland releases more TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Therefore, elevated TSH levels are characteristic of primary hypothyroidism.

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.