A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition. Which of the following laboratory results indicates a possible complication of this therapy?
Serum calcium 12.5 mg/dL
BUN 16 mg/dL
Serum potassium 4.6 mEq/L
WBC count 8,000/mm³
The Correct Answer is A
A nurse caring for a client who is receiving total parenteral nutrition should identify that a serum calcium level of 12.5 mg/dL indicates a possible complication of this therapy. Total parenteral nutrition can result in electrolyte imbalances, including hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood).
The other laboratory results are within normal ranges and do not indicate a complication of total parenteral nutrition.
b) A BUN level of 16 mg/dL is within the normal range.
c) A serum potassium level of 4.6 mEq/L is within the normal range.
d) A WBC count of 8,000/mm³ is within the normal range.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A hemoglobin (Hgb) level of 8.8 mg/dL indicates anemia, which is a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Fatigue and tiredness are common symptoms of anemia. When the body does not have enough hemoglobin to transport oxygen effectively, it can lead to feelings of fatigue and a lack of energy.
The other options are not directly associated with a low hemoglobin level:
b) "I have noticed that my fingernails are becoming thicker." Thicker fingernails are not typically associated with a low hemoglobin level. Changes in fingernails can be atributed to various factors, but they are not directly related to anemia.
c) "I have to go to the bathroom all the time." Frequent urination is not typically associated with a low hemoglobin level. It can be related to other factors such as urinary tract infections, diabetes, or diuretic use, among others.
d) "I notice that my hands are always shaky." Hand tremors are not directly associated with a low hemoglobin level. Tremors can have various causes, such as neurological conditions, medication side effects, or excessive caffeine intake, but they are not directly linked to anemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When administering a tap water enema, the client should be assisted to a right Sims position. This position involves lying on the left side with the right knee bent toward the chest.
The other options are not correct because:
a) The client should not bear down during rectal tube insertion.
b) Administering a second enema if results are not clear is not mentioned as a safety precaution.
d) The rectal tube should be inserted in the direction of the sacrum, not the umbilicus.
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