A nurse is reviewing laboratory data on a client who is recovering from surgery.
Drag 1 condition and 1 client finding to fill in each blank in the following sentence.
The client is at risk for developing due to
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"E","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Potassium Levels: The postoperative potassium level for the client is 3.0 mEq/L, which falls below the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Potassium is a critical electrolyte necessary for the proper functioning of cardiac muscles. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the electrical conductivity of the heart. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can disrupt this electrical conductivity, leading to abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can manifest as palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or more severe cardiac events, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Importance of Potassium in Cardiac Function: Potassium is essential for the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. It helps in the return of the cell to its resting state after each heartbeat. A deficiency in potassium disrupts this balance, increasing the risk of erratic heartbeats and arrhythmias. Low potassium can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a marker for potential arrhythmic events.
Clinical Implications: For a postoperative client, maintaining electrolyte balance is crucial. Surgery and anesthesia can affect fluid and electrolyte levels, making it essential to monitor and correct any imbalances. The decrease in potassium levels from 3.5 mEq/L preoperatively to 3.0 mEq/L postoperatively highlights a trend that must be addressed to prevent complications such as arrhythmias.
Preventative Measures: To mitigate the risk of arrhythmias, the healthcare team should consider interventions to correct the hypokalemia. This may include administering potassium supplements orally or intravenously, depending on the severity and clinical context. Continuous cardiac monitoring may also be warranted to detect and manage any emerging arrhythmic events promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
A) Codeine:
Codeine is an opioid analgesic and is not classified as a nonopioid analgesic.
B) Ibuprofen:
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is considered a nonopioid analgesic. It works by reducing inflammation and pain without producing the same addictive effects as opioids.
C) Fentanyl:
Fentanyl is a potent opioid analgesic and is not classified as a nonopioid analgesic.
D) Oxycodone:
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic and is not classified as a nonopioid analgesic.
E) Acetaminophen:
Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a nonopioid analgesic commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. It is not classified as an opioid and does not produce the same addictive effects.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Palliative care is limited to clients who are in a healthcare facility: Palliative care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, hospices, long-term care facilities, and even in the client's home. It is not limited to clients who are in a healthcare facility.
B) The goal of palliative care is to cure an acute illness for a client: Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, rather than curing the illness itself. The primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the client and their family, focusing on physical, psychosocial, and spiritual aspects of care.
C) Palliative care is restricted to clients who are terminally ill: While palliative care is often associated with end-of-life care for clients with terminal illnesses, it is not limited to this population. Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, or end-of-life care.
D) Palliative care can be provided to a client who is receiving a curative treatment: This is the correct statement. Palliative care can be integrated with curative treatment for clients with serious illnesses. It focuses on managing symptoms, providing emotional support, and improving the overall quality of life, regardless of whether the client is receiving treatment aimed at curing their illness.
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