A nurse is reviewing the admission laboratory values for a client who has a history of bulimia nervosa. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

Potassium 2.8 mEq/L

Serum chloride 96 mEq/L

Hgb 11g/dL

Serum amylase 240 units/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Potassium 2.8 mEq/L
Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a critical finding and a priority in individuals with a history of bulimia nervosa, as it can lead to life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Frequent vomiting and laxative use, common behaviors in bulimia nervosa, can result in significant potassium loss. A potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is significantly below the normal range and requires immediate attention.

B. Serum chloride 96 mEq/L: While this value is within the normal range, it should be monitored. However, it is not as critical as addressing severe hypokalemia.

C. Hemoglobin (Hgb) 11 g/dL: This hemoglobin level is within the normal range and does not require immediate attention. It may be influenced by factors other than bulimia nervosa, and addressing hypokalemia is more urgent.

D. Serum amylase 240 units/L: Elevated amylase levels may indicate pancreatic inflammation, which could be related to bulimia nervosa, but it is not as urgent as addressing severe hypokalemia. The priority is managing the life-threatening electrolyte imbalance first.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

A. Sodium level: Correct. Sodium imbalances can have serious consequences, including neurological symptoms. Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte imbalance seen in anorexia nervosa.

B. Blood pressure: Correct. Abnormal blood pressure, especially low blood pressure, can indicate cardiovascular compromise, which is a concern in severe cases of anorexia nervosa.

C. Respiratory rate: Not selected. While monitoring respiratory rate is important, the client's pallor and capillary refill suggest potential issues with peripheral perfusion, making capillary refill more urgent.

D. Capillary refill: Correct. Prolonged capillary refill time is a measure of peripheral perfusion and may indicate poor tissue perfusion, requiring immediate attention.

E. Glucose level: Not selected. While monitoring glucose levels is important, hypoglycemia might not be an immediate concern in this scenario. The client's neurological symptoms may be more related to electrolyte imbalances.

F. Phosphate level: Not selected. Monitoring phosphate levels is important, but severe abnormalities may not require immediate follow-up unless other critical issues are addressed first.

G. Magnesium level: Not selected. Magnesium imbalances are significant but may not require immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are noted.

A. Sodium level B. Phosphate level C. Magnesium level D. Respiratory rate E. capillary refill F. Blood pressure G. Glucose level

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

A. Sodium level:
Abnormal sodium levels can have serious consequences, including neurological symptoms. Immediate follow-up is necessary to assess and manage electrolyte imbalances, as severe cases can lead to complications such as seizures.

B. Phosphate level:
While phosphate levels are important to monitor, they may not require immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are present. Severe phosphate imbalances can occur in the context of malnutrition, but they may not necessitate immediate intervention in the ED unless critical.

C. Magnesium level:
Similar to phosphate, magnesium levels are crucial but may not demand immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are detected. While magnesium imbalances can occur in eating disorders, the urgency depends on the extent of the imbalance.

D. Respiratory rate:
Rapid or abnormal respiratory rates can be indicative of respiratory distress, which may occur in individuals with severe anorexia nervosa. Monitoring and addressing respiratory issues promptly are crucial for the client's respiratory function.

E. Capillary refill:
Capillary refill is included in the list of findings that require immediate follow-up. Prolonged capillary refill time indicates potential issues with peripheral perfusion and warrants prompt attention to assess and address any circulation concerns.

F. Blood pressure:
Abnormal blood pressure, especially low blood pressure, can indicate cardiovascular compromise, which is a concern in severe cases of anorexia nervosa. Monitoring and addressing abnormal blood pressure promptly are essential for the client's well-being.

G. Glucose level:
Anorexia nervosa can lead to hypoglycemia, and low glucose levels can result in various complications, including neurological symptoms. Immediate follow-up is necessary to assess and manage glucose levels for the well-being of the client

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A nurse is reviewing the admission laboratory values for a client who has a history of bulimia nervosa. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

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