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
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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Constantly talking about the traumatic experience is a symptom of intrusive thoughts and re-experiencing, which is characteristic of PTSD.
B. The client is easily startled by loud voices.
Individuals with PTSD often experience heightened arousal and increased reactivity to stimuli. Being easily startled by loud voices is a common symptom of hypervigilance and increased arousal seen in PTSD.
C. Reporting satisfying personal relationships with family and close friends is less likely in individuals with PTSD. PTSD can negatively impact interpersonal relationships due to symptoms such as emotional numbing, avoidance, and hypervigilance.
D. Constant drowsiness and sleeping 11-12 hours daily are not typical findings in PTSD. Individuals with PTSD may experience sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, nightmares, or hyperarousal-related sleep problems.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Loss of appetite is not a specific manifestation of lithium toxicity. However, gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting can contribute to a decreased appetite.
B. Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Toxicity can occur, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Vomiting and diarrhea are common early signs of lithium toxicity. As toxicity progresses, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as tremors, confusion, and potentially life-threatening complications.
C. Increased flatulence is not a typical manifestation of lithium toxicity. Gastrointestinal symptoms associated with lithium toxicity are more likely to include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
D. Increased urination is not a typical manifestation of lithium toxicity. Lithium can affect renal function, leading to decreased urine output, but it does not typically cause increased urination as a sign of toxicity.
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