A nurse is caring for a client who is taking lithium and reports starting a new exercise program.
The nurse should assess the client for which of the following electrolyte imbalances?
Hypomagnesemia.
Hypocalcemia.
Hyponatremia.
Hypokalemia.
The Correct Answer is C
Lithium can cause hyponatremia by increasing the secretion of antidiuretic hormone and reducing the renal clearance of sodium.
Strenuous exercise can also cause hyponatremia by increasing sweat loss and fluid intake. Therefore, a client who is taking lithium and starting a new exercise program is at risk of developing hyponatremia.
Choice A is wrong because hypomagnesemia is not a common side effect of lithium or exercise.
Choice B is wrong because hypocalcemia is not a common side effect of lithium or exercise.
Choice D is wrong because hypokalemia is not a common side effect of lithium or exercise.
However, lithium can interact with some diuretics that can cause hypokalemia, so the client should avoid taking these drugs without consulting their doctor. Normal ranges for electrolytes are:
Sodium: 135-145 mmol/L
Magnesium: 0.7-1.1 mmol/L
Calcium: 2.1-2.6 mmol/L
Potassium: 3.5-5.0 mmol/L
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Albumin is a protein that helps maintain fluid balance in the body by drawing water into the blood vessels. Albumin infusion can increase the blood volume and blood pressure in patients who are in shock due to fluid loss or sepsis.
Choice A is wrong because albumin infusion does not decrease protein levels in the body.
Albumin is a protein itself and adding it to the blood increases the protein concentration.
Choice C is wrong because oxygen saturation of 96% is normal and does not indicate any improvement or deterioration in the patient’s condition.
Choice D is wrong because PaCO2 of 30 mm Hg is low and indicates respiratory alkalosis, which can be caused by hyperventilation, fever, or anxiety. Albumin infusion does not affect PaCO2 levels directly.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Urticaria, also known as hives, is a common sign of an allergic reaction to penicillin. An allergic reaction is an abnormal response of the immune system to the drug. Other signs and symptoms of penicillin allergy may include skin rash, itching, fever, swelling, shortness of breath, wheezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a rare but life-threatening condition that affects multiple body systems and requires immediate emergency treatment.
Choice A is wrong because pallor is not a typical sign of an allergic reaction to penicillin.
Pallor means pale skin and may be caused by other conditions such as anemia or shock.
Choice B is wrong because bradycardia is not a typical sign of an allergic reaction to penicillin.
Bradycardia means slow heart rate and may be caused by other conditions such as heart block or medication side effects.
Choice D is wrong because dyspepsia is not a typical sign of an allergic reaction to penicillin.
Dyspepsia means indigestion and may be caused by other conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcer.
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