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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Grandiosity.
Grandiosity is a symptom commonly seen in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. It involves an inflated sense of self-importance, unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities, and a perception of being involved in activities that are revolutionary or of great significance. In this scenario, the client's statement about revolutionizing the industry reflects grandiosity.
B. Clang associations involve the association of words based on sound rather than meaning and are often seen in individuals with thought disorders.
C. Flight of ideas refers to a rapid flow of thoughts, often manifested by speech that is difficult to interrupt, with topics changing rapidly.
D. Confabulation is the creation of false or distorted memories without the intention to deceive. It is not a characteristic behavior of mania in bipolar disorder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hyperexcitability is not typically associated with major depressive disorder. In fact, individuals with depression often experience a decrease in energy, motivation, and overall activity levels.
B. Significant change in weight.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is often associated with changes in appetite and weight. Clients with MDD may experience either weight loss or weight gain. This can result from changes in eating habits related to the individual's emotional state.
C. Exaggerated response of pleasure to stimuli is not a characteristic finding in major depressive disorder. In contrast, individuals with depression may experience anhedonia, which is a reduced ability to experience pleasure from previously enjoyable activities.
D. Attention-seeking behavior is not a specific characteristic of major depressive disorder. Individuals with depression may withdraw socially and experience difficulties in concentration and attention.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
