A nurse is collecting data from a client who has hypokalemia as a result of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Extreme thirst.
Weak, irregular pulse.
Hyperactive bowel sounds.
Hyperactive reflexes.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Extreme thirst is not a typical finding in a client with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is an electrolyte imbalance that can lead to symptoms like weakness and irregular heartbeats, but extreme thirst is not a direct result of low potassium levels.
Choice B rationale:
"Weak, irregular pulse" is the correct response. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, which may manifest as a weak, irregular pulse. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining the electrical activity of the heart, and low levels can disrupt normal heart rhythms.
Choice C rationale:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, you might expect diminished or absent bowel sounds in severe cases due to muscle weakness.
Choice D rationale:
Hyperactive reflexes are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, hypokalemia can lead to muscle weakness and potentially even paralysis in severe cases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement, "I will wear stockings with elastic tops," is correct and indicates that the client understands the importance of proper leg circulation and prevention of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) complications. This choice is appropriate.
Choice B rationale:
The statement, "I will avoid crossing my legs at the knees," is correct and demonstrates the client's awareness of the need to avoid positions that can impede blood flow. Crossing the legs at the knees can compress blood vessels and impede circulation, potentially worsening PVD.
Choice C rationale:
The statement, "I will not go barefoot," is appropriate advice for a client with PVD. Going barefoot can increase the risk of injury to the feet, which may be more vulnerable in individuals with PVD due to reduced circulation. Therefore, this statement is not an indication for further teaching.
Choice D rationale:
The statement, "I will use a thermometer to check the temperature of my bath water," is unrelated to PVD and does not indicate a need for further teaching. While it's a good safety practice to avoid hot baths that could potentially burn or harm the skin, it is not directly related to PVD management. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choiceA. Heart rate 50/min.
Choice A rationale:
Atenolol is a beta-blocker that can significantly lower heart rate.A heart rate of 50/min is considered bradycardia (slow heart rate), and administering atenolol could further decrease the heart rate to a dangerously low level. Therefore, the nurse should withhold the medication in this case.
Choice B rationale:
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute) and does not contraindicate the use of atenolol. Therefore, this finding would not require withholding the medication.
Choice C rationale:
An oxygen saturation of 95% is within the normal range (typically 95-100%) and does not contraindicate the use of atenolol. Thus, this finding would not necessitate withholding the medication.
Choice D rationale:
While a blood pressure of 160/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, atenolol is often prescribed to manage high blood pressure. Therefore, this finding would not require withholding the medication.
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