A nurse is preparing to administer oral potassium for a client who has a potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Repeat the potassium level.
Withhold the medication.
Monitor for paresthesia.
Administer a hypertonic solution.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Repeating the potassium level is not the first action to take. The nurse already has a recent lab value.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should withhold the medication. The normal range for potassium is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. A level of 5.5 mEq/L is high, so giving more potassium could lead to hyperkalemia.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring for paresthesia is important in hyperkalemia, but it is not the first action. The nurse should first prevent further increase in potassium levels.
Choice D rationale:
Administering a hypertonic solution is not relevant in this situation. It does not directly address the high potassium level.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tilt the head and lift the chin is a technique used to open the airway in an unconscious client, not a conscious one with an airway obstruction.
Choice B rationale:
Turning the client to the side is not the first action to take when a client is conscious and has an airway obstruction.
Choice C rationale:
The Heimlich maneuver is the appropriate action to take for a conscious client who has an airway obstruction. It works by creating an artificial cough, intended to force the obstruction out.
Choice D rationale:
A blind finger sweep should never be performed because it can push the obstruction further into the airway.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The prescription should be clear and appropriate. If there is any part of the prescription that is unclear or inappropriate, it should be clarified with the provider. This is to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication for the client.
Choice B rationale:
Repeating the prescription back to the provider is a good practice to confirm the accuracy of the prescription. However, it is not the only step in ensuring the appropriateness of the prescription.
Choice C rationale:
Transcribing the prescription into the client’s medical record is important for documentation and continuity of care. However, it does not directly address the appropriateness of the prescription.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining the provider’s signature within 48 hours is a regulatory requirement in some settings. However, it does not directly address the appropriateness of the prescription.
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