A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory results.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Chloride 99 mEq/L.
Sodium 126 mEq/L.
Magnesium 1.9 mg/dL.
Potassium 3.6 mEq/L.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Chloride 99 mEq/L. Rationale: A chloride level of 99 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is typically around 96-106 mEq/L. There is no need to report this value to the provider as it is not indicative of a significant abnormality.
Choice C rationale:
Magnesium 1.9 mg/dL. Rationale: A magnesium level of 1.9 mg/dL is within the normal range, which is generally about 1.5-2.5 mg/dL. This value is not indicative of a significant abnormality and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Potassium 3.6 mEq/L. Rationale: A potassium level of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is typically around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. While it's on the lower side of the normal range, it is not low enough to warrant immediate reporting to the provider. However, the nurse should continue to monitor the client's potassium levels and address any potential issues if they persist or worsen.
Choice B rationale:
Sodium 126 mEq/L. Rationale: A sodium level of 126 mEq/L is below the normal range, which is typically around 135-145 mEq/L. Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels, can be a serious condition that can lead to neurological symptoms and other complications. Therefore, the nurse should promptly report this finding to the provider so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administer IV morphine. Administering IV morphine may be necessary for pain management in a client with a pulmonary embolism. However, pain relief should not take precedence over ensuring the patient's oxygenation and cardiovascular stability. Oxygen therapy is the top priority to address hypoxia and prevent further deterioration. Once oxygenation is secured, pain management can be considered.
Choice B rationale:
Start an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's. Initiating an IV infusion of lactated Ringer's solution may be important for maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance in a patient with a pulmonary embolism. However, this is not the top priority when a client is at risk of or experiencing a pulmonary embolism. Ensuring oxygenation and cardiovascular stability takes precedence. Once the patient is stable, intravenous fluids can be administered if needed.
Choice D rationale:
Initiate cardiac monitoring. Initiating cardiac monitoring is important in assessing the patient's cardiac rhythm and identifying any dysrhythmias or changes that may occur due to the pulmonary embolism. While this is a vital step, it is not the highest priority when the client is in a state of hypoxia and respiratory distress. Oxygen therapy should be the first intervention to address the immediate threat to the patient's life.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Extreme thirst is not a typical finding in a client with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is an electrolyte imbalance that can lead to symptoms like weakness and irregular heartbeats, but extreme thirst is not a direct result of low potassium levels.
Choice B rationale:
"Weak, irregular pulse" is the correct response. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, which may manifest as a weak, irregular pulse. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining the electrical activity of the heart, and low levels can disrupt normal heart rhythms.
Choice C rationale:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, you might expect diminished or absent bowel sounds in severe cases due to muscle weakness.
Choice D rationale:
Hyperactive reflexes are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, hypokalemia can lead to muscle weakness and potentially even paralysis in severe cases.
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