A nurse is collecting data on a client who has diarrhea. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of hypokalemia?
Hypertension
Cerebral edema
Muscle weakness
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is c. Muscle weakness.
Choice A: Hypertension
Reason: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function and the nervous system. While potassium imbalances can influence blood pressure, hypertension is more commonly associated with hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) rather than hypokalemia.
Choice B: Cerebral Edema
Reason: Cerebral edema, which is swelling of the brain, is not a known manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia affects muscle and nerve function, but it does not directly cause cerebral edema. This condition is more related to severe head injuries, infections, or other medical conditions.
Choice C: Muscle Weakness
Reason: Muscle weakness is a common and significant manifestation of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for muscle function, and low levels can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and even paralysis in severe cases. This is because potassium helps in the transmission of nerve signals to muscles, and a deficiency disrupts this process.
Choice D: Hyperactive Bowel Sounds
Reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, hypokalemia can lead to decreased bowel motility, resulting in symptoms like constipation or ileus (a condition where the intestines do not move properly). This is due to the role of potassium in muscle contractions, including those in the digestive tract.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tachycardia is not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Tachycardia is a condition where the heart rate is faster than normal, usually above 100 beats per minute. Tachycardia can be caused by various factors, such as fever, infection, pain, or anxiety. Tachycardia can also be a sign of hypoxemia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood, and may indicate the need for oxygen therapy.
Choice B reason: Cracks in oral mucous membranes are an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Cracks in oral mucous membranes are a sign of dryness and irritation caused by the oxygen flow. Oxygen therapy can reduce the natural moisture and lubrication of the mouth and nose, leading to discomfort and increased risk of infection. To prevent or treat this problem, the nurse should provide the client with humidified oxygen, oral care, and hydration.
Choice C reason: Excessive pulmonary secretions are not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Excessive pulmonary secretions are a sign of inflammation and infection in the lungs, which can impair gas exchange and cause coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea. Excessive pulmonary secretions can be a symptom of pneumonia, which is a common cause of respiratory failure and may require oxygen therapy.
Choice D reason: Poor skin turgor is not an adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Poor skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, which is a loss of fluid from the body. Dehydration can be caused by various factors, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or inadequate intake. Dehydration can affect the blood volume and pressure, and may worsen the oxygen delivery to the tissues. To prevent or treat this problem, the nurse should monitor the client's fluid balance and provide adequate hydration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bacteria are not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Bacteria are microorganisms that do not contain hemoglobin.
Choice B reason: Fat is not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Fat is a lipid that does not contain hemoglobin.
Choice C reason: Parasites are not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Parasites are organisms that live in or on another host and do not contain hemoglobin.
Choice D reason: Blood is detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Blood can indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be caused by various conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or cancer.
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