A nurse is phoning a provider to report a client's serum potassium of 6.2 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect the provider to prescribe?
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexolate)
Lactulose
Acetylcysteine
Potassium iodide
The Correct Answer is A
A. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate): This medication is used to treat hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, which helps lower potassium levels. The client’s potassium level is dangerously high at 6.2 mEq/L, so this is the most appropriate treatment.
B. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hyperammonemia in liver failure or constipation. It has no role in managing elevated potassium levels.
C. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used to treat acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic. It is not indicated for hyperkalemia.
D. Potassium iodide: Potassium iodide is used to protect the thyroid from radiation exposure or to treat certain types of thyroid conditions, not for hyperkalemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Skeletal muscle weakness: This is more commonly seen with hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia typically causes neuromuscular irritability, which manifests as muscle spasms rather than weakness.
B. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes: This is more commonly seen with hypercalcemia. Hypocalcemia typically increases neuromuscular irritability and can cause hyperactive reflexes.
C. Tingling of the lips: This is a classic sign of hypocalcemia, as low calcium levels can lead to neuromuscular excitability, which can cause sensations like tingling (paresthesia) around the lips and fingers.
D. Hypoactive bowel sounds: Hypocalcemia typically increases bowel motility, which can lead to hyperactive bowel sounds, not hypoactive bowel sounds.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased appetite: Hyponatremia does not typically cause increased appetite.
B. Hyporeflexia: Severe hyponatremia may lead to neurological symptoms, but reflex changes are less common.
C. Constipation: This is unrelated to sodium levels.
D. Headache: Hyponatremia causes cellular swelling, including in the brain, leading to headache, nausea, and neurological symptoms.
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