A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has a potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan?
Give a dose of alendronate.
Administer furosemide.
Apply a cardiac monitor.
Monitor for Chvostek's sign.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Give a dose of alendronate is incorrect. Alendronate is a medication used to treat osteoporosis, and it does not address low potassium levels. In this case, the focus should be on correcting the potassium imbalance.
B. Administer furosemide is incorrect. Furosemide is a diuretic that can cause further loss of potassium. In a client with low potassium levels (hypokalemia., administering furosemide could worsen the condition and lead to life-threatening complications.
C. Apply a cardiac monitor is correct. Hypokalemia (potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L) can cause significant cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Applying a cardiac monitor is essential for monitoring the client’s heart rhythm and detecting any abnormalities related to the low potassium level.
D. Monitor for Chvostek's sign is incorrect. Chvostek's sign is indicative of hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia. While both hypocalcemia and hypokalemia can cause neuromuscular excitability, monitoring for Chvostek’s sign is not a priority in the management of hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Leukorrhea is correct. Leukorrhea, a normal increase in vaginal discharge, is a common discomfort during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is typically white or clear and odorless, and is caused by hormonal changes.
B. Burning during urination is incorrect. Burning during urination is not a normal discomfort of pregnancy and could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI), which requires further evaluation and treatment.
C. Swelling of the face is incorrect. Swelling, especially of the face, is not typical during the first trimester and could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as preeclampsia, and should be investigated further.
D. Diarrhea is incorrect. While gastrointestinal changes can occur during pregnancy, diarrhea is not typically a common discomfort of the first trimester. Constipation, on the other hand, is more common due to hormonal changes that slow down bowel motility.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Wipe any excess medication from the inner canthus outward: This is the correct approach. When administering ophthalmic ointment, the nurse should wipe away any excess from the inner canthus to the outer canthus to prevent contamination of the unaffected eye and to avoid spreading the infection.
B. Instruct guardian to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment every morning for 14 days.: This is incorrect because the child has been prescribed bacitracin ophthalmic ointment, not erythromycin. The nurse should instruct the guardian to use the prescribed medication as directed.
C. Gently massage the eyelid to facilitate absorption of the medication.: Massaging the eyelid is unnecessary and could lead to irritation or injury. The medication should be allowed to be absorbed naturally without additional manipulation.
D. Place an occlusive dressing on the affected eye to prevent the spread of infection.: An occlusive dressing is not recommended as it may cause increased irritation or pressure on the eye. The best practice is to maintain proper hygiene and follow the prescribed medication regimen.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.