A nurse is caring for a client who is a long-term alcoholic. The client presents to the emergency department with vomiting and diarrhea for several days. Which findings would the nurse expect to find in this client?

dysphagia

hypoactive deep tendon reflexes (DTR)

hypomagnesemia

positive Chvostek sign hypertension

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Dysphagia: While dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can occur in individuals with long-term alcohol use, especially if there is coexisting neurological damage or esophageal disorders, it is not specifically associated with vomiting and diarrhea in the context of this scenario. The primary concern here involves electrolyte imbalances.

B) Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes (DTR): Hypoactive DTRs are typically associated with hypermagnesemia rather than hypomagnesemia. In this case, the client's condition is more likely to lead to electrolyte deficiencies, including hypomagnesemia, due to vomiting, diarrhea, and poor nutritional intake.

C) Hypomagnesemia: Chronic alcohol use often results in nutritional deficiencies, and vomiting and diarrhea can further exacerbate this by depleting electrolytes. Hypomagnesemia is a common finding in long-term alcoholics due to poor dietary intake, gastrointestinal losses, and renal losses. This can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, tremors, and altered mental status. Hypomagnesemia is particularly concerning because it can affect cardiovascular stability and neuromuscular function.

D) Positive Chvostek sign: A positive Chvostek sign is indicative of hypocalcemia, which can occur secondary to hypomagnesemia. However, it is not as directly associated with chronic alcoholism as hypomagnesemia itself. The positive Chvostek sign involves a facial muscle spasm in response to tapping the facial nerve and indicates neuromuscular irritability due to low calcium levels. While related, the primary electrolyte imbalance expected here is hypomagnesemia.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. 8 hr - Infusing one unit of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) over 8 hours is too long. Typically, PRBCs are infused over a shorter period to avoid complications.

B. 4 hr - Infusing PRBCs over 4 hours is still within acceptable limits, but the standard time for PRBC transfusion is usually shorter.

C. 6 hr - Infusing PRBCs over 6 hours is longer than usual. The recommended duration for infusing one unit of PRBCs is generally shorter.

D. 2 hr - The standard time to infuse one unit of PRBCs is typically between 1.5 to 2 hours. This duration helps ensure the effective delivery of red blood cells while minimizing the risk of transfusion reactions.

A. The client is reporting constipation. B. The client reports being thirsty C. The client is vomiting the enteral formula. D. The client is experiencing abdominal cramping.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) The client is reporting constipation:

Constipation is a common issue with enteral feeding, often due to decreased fluid intake or lack of fiber. While it is important to manage constipation to improve comfort and bowel function, it is not as urgent as dealing with vomiting.

B) The client reports being thirsty:

Thirst can be a sign of dehydration or inadequate fluid intake. Although it should be addressed to ensure proper hydration, it is less critical compared to vomiting, which poses immediate risks.

C) The client is vomiting the enteral formula:

Vomiting is a priority concern because it can lead to aspiration, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and further complications. Addressing the cause of vomiting and managing it promptly is crucial for the client’s safety.

D) The client is experiencing abdominal cramping:

Abdominal cramping can be related to the feeding rate, type of formula, or intolerance. While it requires attention, it is less urgent than addressing vomiting, which could have more immediate and serious consequences.

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﻿A nurse is caring for a client who is a long-term alcoholic. The client presents to the emergency department with vomiting and diarrhea for several days. Which findings would the nurse expect to find in this client?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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A nurse is caring for a client who is a long-term alcoholic. The client presents to the emergency department with vomiting and diarrhea for several days. Which findings would the nurse expect to find in this client?