A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving IV fluids to correct dehydration. Which of the following laboratory values should indicate to the nurse that the client is effectively responding to treatment?
Urine specific gravity 1.020.
Potassium 5.2 mEq/L.
Hct 6296.
Sodium 165 mEq/L.
The Correct Answer is A
Urine specific gravity 1.020.
Choice A rationale:
Urine specific gravity is a measure of urine concentration, indicating the ability of the kidneys to concentrate or dilute urine. A specific gravity of 1.020 falls within the normal range (typically 1.010 to 1.030). An appropriate specific gravity indicates that the client's kidneys are responding well to the IV fluids, maintaining adequate urine output and concentration.
Choice B rationale:
Potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is above the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. However, this value does not specifically indicate whether the client is responding effectively to the IV fluids for dehydration.
Choice C rationale:
Hct (Hematocrit) of 6296 is not a valid measurement; it appears to be a typographical error or an incomplete value. Therefore, it cannot be used to assess the client's response to treatment.
Choice D rationale:
Sodium level of 165 mEq/L is elevated beyond the normal range of 136 to 145 mEq/L. However, this value does not provide information about the client's response to IV fluids for dehydration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client with a phosphate level of 5.7 mg/dL likely has a manifestation of hypoparathyroidism. Hypoparathyroidism leads to decreased parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion, which causes increased renal phosphate reabsorption, leading to elevated phosphate levels in the blood.
Choice B rationale:
A calcium level of 9.8 mg/dL is within the normal range (8.5-10.2 mg/dL) and does not indicate hypoparathyroidism.
Choice C rationale:
A vitamin D level of 25 ng/mL is within the normal range (30-100 ng/mL) and does not suggest hypoparathyroidism.
Choice D rationale:
A magnesium level of 1.8 mEq/L is within the normal range (1.7-2.2 mEq/L) and does not directly indicate hypoparathyroidism.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Other electrolyte disturbances.
Choice A rationale:
Drug toxicity is not directly related to hypocalcemia. The main concern in hypocalcemia is the calcium imbalance itself, not drug toxicity.
Choice B rationale:
Other electrolyte disturbances should be assessed because imbalances in other electrolytes, such as potassium and magnesium, are often associated with hypocalcemia. Electrolyte imbalances can interact and exacerbate each other, potentially leading to more severe complications.
Choice C rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical assessment finding in hypocalcemia. Hypertension is not directly related to calcium levels but may have other underlying causes.
Choice D rationale:
Visual disturbances are not commonly associated with hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia is more likely to present with neuromuscular and cardiovascular symptoms, rather than visual disturbances.
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