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 D
Explanation
A. Using opioids to treat hallucinations is not a common reason, as opioids are not typically prescribed for this purpose. Hallucinations might be indicative of another underlying mental health condition that needs assessment and appropriate treatment.
B. Witnessing parents using drugs or alcohol to cope is a risk factor for substance use disorders, but it does not directly explain the client's initiation of opioid use. There may be other contributing factors, such as pain or anxiety.
C. Using opioids to promote sleep and rest is a possibility, especially if the client has chronic pain or anxiety affecting their sleep. Opioids can have sedative effects, which might be appealing to individuals experiencing sleep difficulties. However, treating pain and anxiety is often a primary reason for opioid use in such cases.
D. To treat pain and ease anxiety.
Chronic back pain due to a gymnastics injury and anxiety are identified as pre-existing conditions. The client may have started using opioids to manage chronic pain and potentially as a way to cope with anxiety. Opioids are often prescribed for pain relief, and individuals may misuse them to self-medicate emotional distress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Uncontrolled movements around the mouth.
Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect associated with the long-term use of antipsychotic medications, especially first-generation or typical antipsychotics. It is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements, often involving the face, such as uncontrolled movements around the mouth (e.g., lip smacking, puckering, chewing).
B. Seizures and tremors are not typical adverse effects of tardive dyskinesia. They are more commonly associated with other side effects or conditions.
C. Nausea and vomiting are not typically associated with tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms may be side effects of antipsychotic medications, but they are not characteristic of tardive dyskinesia itself.
D. Hallucinations and delusions are not associated with tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia primarily involves involuntary movements and is not related to changes in thought content or perception.
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.
