A nurse is caring for four clients who have drainage tubes.
Which of the following clients should the nurse recognize as being at risk for hypokalemia?
The client who has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction.
The client who has a tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen.
The client who has an indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage.
The client who has a chest tube to water seal.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Patients with a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction are at risk for hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can occur due to increased losses from the gastrointestinal tract, which can occur with NG tube suction. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a vital role in many bodily functions, particularly in the heart and cardiovascular system. Therefore, any condition or intervention that leads to a significant loss of potassium, such as NG tube suction, can potentially lead to hypokalemia.
Choice B rationale
A tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen is primarily used to help a patient breathe. It does not typically contribute to potassium loss or imbalance. Therefore, it is not likely to increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Choice C rationale
An indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage is used to drain urine from the bladder. While the kidneys do play a role in maintaining potassium balance, the use of a urinary catheter itself does not typically lead to significant potassium loss or increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Choice D rationale
A chest tube to water seal is used to remove air, fluid, or pus from the pleural space to help the lungs expand properly. It does not typically contribute to potassium loss or imbalance.
Therefore, it is not likely to increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Nonfat milk is generally not a trigger for GERD101112131415. It is low in fat and thus less likely to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which can lead to acid reflux1415.
Choice B rationale
Chocolate is known to trigger GERD symptoms1415. It contains caffeine and fat, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and cause acid reflux1415.
Choice C rationale
Oatmeal is generally not a trigger for GERD101112131415. It is a whole grain that is high in fiber, which can help control GERD symptoms1415.
Choice D rationale
Apples are generally not a trigger for GERD101112131415. They are non-citrus fruits and thus less likely to cause acid reflux1415.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A blood pressure of 102/66 mm Hg is within the normal range and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B rationale
Yellow-green drainage on the surgical incision could be a sign of a wound infection. Infections after surgery can lead to serious complications and should be reported to the provider immediately.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
Choice D rationale
Straw-colored urine from an indwelling urinary catheter is normal and would not typically need to be reported to the provider.
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