A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Chest x-ray showing cardiomegaly
PaCO2 55 mmHg
Potassium level 4.5 mEq/L
Urinary output of 1,000 mL in 12 hr
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Chest x-ray showing cardiomegaly is not a new finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates enlargement of the heart due to increased workload and pressure on the cardiac chambers.
Choice B reason: PaCO2 55 mmHg is an abnormal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates respiratory acidosis, which is a condition where the lungs cannot eliminate enough carbon dioxide and the blood becomes too acidic. This can be caused by pulmonary edema, which is a complication of heart failure that impairs gas exchange and ventilation.
Choice C reason: Potassium level 4.5 mEq/L is a normal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates adequate electrolyte balance and renal function.
Choice D reason: Urinary output of 1,000 mL in 12 hr is a normal finding for the client who has heart failure, as it indicates adequate fluid status and cardiac output.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Blurred vision is not an expected side effect of digoxin, but a sign of digoxin toxicity, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because digoxin can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which increases the risk of digoxin toxicity. Therefore, clients taking digoxin need to have their potassium levels monitored regularly and consume foods rich in potassium.
Choice C reason: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of digoxin and reduce its effectiveness. Clients taking digoxin should avoid taking antacids within two hours of taking the medication.
Choice D reason: Weighing oneself every other day is not related to digoxin therapy, but to fluid balance. Clients with heart failure, who are often prescribed digoxin, need to monitor their weight daily and report any significant changes to their health care provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Changed mental status, such as confusion, agitation, or delirium, can be a sign of a bladder infection in older adults, as they may not have the typical symptoms of dysuria, frequency, or urgency.
Choice B reason: WBC count 9,000/mm³ is within the normal range of 4,500 to 11,000/mm³ and does not indicate an infection.
Choice C reason: Diminished reflexes are not related to a bladder infection and may be due to aging, neurological disorders, or medication side effects.
Choice D reason: Temperature 37.3°C (99.1°F) is slightly elevated but not indicative of a bladder infection. Older adults may have lower baseline temperatures and may not develop fever in response to an infection.
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