A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has an NG tube that has drained 2,500 ml. In the past 6 hr. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following electrolyte Imbalances?
Decreased potassium level
Decreased calcium level
Elevated magnesium level
Elevated sodium level
The Correct Answer is A
A. Decreased potassium level
NG tube drainage can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to the loss of gastric fluids, which contain significant amounts of potassium. This choice is correct.
B. Decreased calcium level
Calcium levels are not directly affected by NG tube drainage.
C. Elevated magnesium level
NG tube drainage does not typically lead to elevated magnesium levels.
D. Elevated sodium level
NG tube drainage can result in hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to the loss of gastric fluids. Elevated sodium levels are not expected in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will use caution when eating high fiber foods."Clients with an ileostomy should be cautious with high-fiber foods as they can cause blockages.
B. "I will empty my pouch when it becomes one third full."
This statement is correct. Regularly emptying the pouch prevents it from becoming too heavy and ensures comfort for the client.
C. "I will be certain to take enteric-coated medications."This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Enteric-coated medications are designed to dissolve in the intestine, but with an ileostomy, the medication may pass through the digestive system too quickly to be absorbed effectively. Clients should be advised to consult their healthcare provider about medication forms, as liquid or non-enteric-coated medications may be more appropriate.
D. "I will change my entire pouch system at least weekly."
This statement is correct. Changing the pouch system regularly helps maintain hygiene and prevents skin irritation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Check the client for a positive Chvostek’s sign:
Chvostek's sign is a clinical sign of hypocalcemia, not related to the given laboratory values. The symptoms include facial muscle twitching when the facial nerve (VII) is tapped. There's no indication for this assessment based on the provided information.
B. Discontinue the TPN infusion:
The glucose level is within the normal range (70-99 mg/dL). Discontinuing TPN based solely on this glucose level is not warranted.
C. Request a potassium replacement:
The potassium level is low (normal range typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Given the low potassium level, the nurse should plan to request a potassium replacement. Potassium is crucial for various physiological functions, and a deficiency can lead to significant complications.
D. Administer glucagon IM:
Glucagon is used to treat hypoglycemia, but the client's glucose level is within the normal range, so administering glucagon is not indicated.
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