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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hematoma: A hematoma typically results from bleeding into the tissue, causing swelling and bruising at the infusion site, but it doesn't usually cause warmth or pain in the same way as phlebitis.
B. Phlebitis: Phlebitis is inflammation of the vein, commonly caused by an IV catheter or medication, and it often presents with redness, warmth, pain, and swelling at the infusion site. It is the most likely complication here.
C. Speed Shock: Speed shock occurs when a medication or fluid is administered too rapidly, causing symptoms such as dizziness, chest tightness, and hypotension, not localized symptoms like redness and pain at the infusion site.
D. Thrombosis: Thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot within a vein, which can cause swelling, warmth, and discomfort but would also likely involve more significant blockage and would be associated with reduced blood flow, not just localized redness and pain.
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.
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.
