A nurse is gathering data on a patient who has diarrhea.
Which of the following findings is a sign of hypokalemia?
Hypertension.
Cerebral edema.
Muscle weakness.
Hyperactive bowel sounds.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not typically a sign of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, digestive problems, and frequent urination. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not commonly associated with hypokalemia.
Choice B rationale:
Cerebral edema, or swelling in the brain, is not a common symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is more likely to cause symptoms related to muscle function and digestion, as potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate muscle contractions, maintain healthy nerve function, and regulate fluid balance.
Choice C rationale:
Muscle weakness is a common symptom of hypokalemia. Potassium helps regulate muscle contractions. When blood potassium levels are low, your muscles produce weaker contractions. This can result in symptoms like muscle weakness and fatigue.
Choice D rationale:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can cause digestive problems, but these are more likely to be issues like constipation rather than increased bowel sounds.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering insulin is a crucial step in managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), as insulin deficiency is a primary cause of DKA12. However, it is not the first action to take when a patient presents with both DKA and hypoxia. While insulin helps to reduce blood glucose levels and suppress the production of ketones, it does not address the immediate life-threatening condition of hypoxia.
Choice B rationale:
Hypoxia, or low levels of oxygen in the body, is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Supplemental oxygen can help increase the oxygen levels in the patient’s blood, thereby alleviating hypoxia. In the context of a patient with DKA and hypoxia, providing supplemental oxygen would be the first action to take to stabilize the patient’s condition before addressing the DKA12.
Choice C rationale:
Checking the patient’s glucose level is an important part of managing DKA, as hyperglycemia is a key feature of this condition. However, it is not the first action to take in this scenario. While monitoring glucose levels can guide the administration of insulin and other treatments for DKA, it does not address the immediate threat posed by hypoxia.
Choice D rationale:
Administering intravenous fluids is another important step in managing DKA12. Dehydration is a common complication of DKA due to excessive urination caused by high blood sugar levels. However, similar to Choices A and C, while it is an important part of treatment, it is not the first action to take when a patient presents with both DKA and hypoxia.
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices A and C.
Choice A rationale: Ignoring the urge to defecate can lead to constipation because the longer stool remains in the colon, the more water is absorbed from it, making it harder and more difficult to pass. This can lead to a cycle of further constipation and discomfort.
Choice B rationale: Increased fiber in the diet usually helps prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool and making it easier to pass. Therefore, it is not a cause of constipation, but rather a preventive measure.
Choice C rationale: Excessive laxative use can lead to dependence on laxatives for bowel movements and can disrupt normal bowel function. Over time, this can lead to constipation as the bowel becomes less responsive to normal stimuli.
Choice D rationale: Increased activity generally helps to prevent constipation by stimulating bowel motility. Physical exercise can enhance the efficiency of the digestive system, so it is not a cause of constipation.
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