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
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Headaches with aura is correct. Headaches with aura, a warning sign that can precede a migraine, are a contraindication for the use of oral contraceptives. This is because oral contraceptives increase the risk of stroke, especially in women who experience migraines with aura.
B. History of mononucleosis 1 year ago is incorrect. There is no specific contraindication for oral contraceptives related to a history of mononucleosis. This condition does not affect the effectiveness or safety of oral contraceptive use.
C. Irregular menstrual cycles is incorrect. Irregular menstrual cycles are not a contraindication for oral contraceptive use. In fact, oral contraceptives may help regulate menstrual cycles.
D. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD. is incorrect. While GERD may cause discomfort, it is not a contraindication for oral contraceptives. Women with GERD can typically use oral contraceptives safely.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Patient care technician is incorrect. A patient care technician (PCT) is typically responsible for assisting with basic care tasks, such as taking vital signs or helping with personal hygiene. A PCT is not qualified to assess or manage medication interactions.
B. Psychologist is incorrect. A psychologist specializes in mental health and behavior but does not have the expertise to manage or review medication interactions.
C. Advanced practice nurse is correct. An advanced practice nurse (APN), such as a nurse practitioner, has advanced education and training in pharmacology and the management of complex medication regimens. They can assess potential medication interactions and provide guidance on safe medication use.
D. Social worker is incorrect. While a social worker provides support in areas like coping with illness and accessing resources, they are not typically involved in managing or reviewing medication interactions.
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