A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
Which finding should alert the nurse to a potential complication of DKA?
Blood glucose level of 350 mg/dL
Serum potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L
Arterial blood pH of 7.25
Serum bicarbonate level of 18 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is B
Serum potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L
Rationale: A serum potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which is a potential complication of DKA due to insulin deficiency, acidosis, and dehydration. Hyperkalemia can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and paresthesia.
Incorrect options:
A) Blood glucose level of 350 mg/dL - This is an expected finding for a client who has DKA, as insulin deficiency leads to hyperglycemia and glycosuria. The goal of treatment for DKA is to lower blood glucose levels gradually to prevent cerebral edema.
C) Arterial blood pH of 7.25 - This is an expected finding for a client who has DKA, as insulin deficiency leads to increased breakdown of fatty acids and production of ketones, resulting in metabolic acidosis. The normal range for arterial blood pH is 7.35 to 7.45.
D) Serum bicarbonate level of 18 mEq/L - This is an expected finding for a client who has DKA, as metabolic acidosis causes a decrease in serum bicarbonate levels due to buffering mechanisms. The normal range for serum bicarbonate levels is 22 to 26 mEq/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The client's fetal heart rate is 180 beats per minute.
Rationale: A fetal heart rate of 180 beats per minute is above the normal range of 110 to 160 beats per minute and indicates fetal distress. The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately and prepare for interventions to improve fetal oxygenation, such as changing the client's position, administering oxygen, or initiating a fluid bolus.
Incorrect options:
A) The client's cervix is dilated to 4 cm. - This is a normal finding for the first stage of labor, which lasts until the cervix is fully dilated to 10 cm.
C) The client's contractions are 5 minutes apart. - This is a normal finding for the active phase of the first stage of labor, which occurs when the contractions are 3 to 5 minutes apart and last for 40 to 60 seconds.
D) The client's amniotic fluid is clear and odorless. - This is a normal finding that indicates the absence of infection or meconium staining in the amniotic fluid.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
"I will quit smoking as soon as possible."
Rationale: Quitting smoking is a lifestyle modification that can lower blood pressure, as smoking causes vasoconstriction and increases cardiac workload and oxygen demand.
Incorrect options:
A) "I will limit my sodium intake to 4 grams per day." - This statement indicates a need for further teaching, as limiting sodium intake to 4 grams per day is not sufficient for someone with hypertension. The recommended daily sodium intake for individuals with hypertension is generally lower, around 1,500-2,300 milligrams (mg).
B) "I will drink no more than two cups of coffee per day." - While limiting caffeine intake is generally recommended for individuals with hypertension, this statement does not address other lifestyle modifications specifically related to blood pressure.
C) "I will exercise for at least 30 minutes three times per week." - Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, but the frequency and duration mentioned in this statement may not be sufficient for effectively lowering blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week for individuals with hypertension.
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