A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?
Inverted P wave
Wide ORS
Elevated ST segment
Abnormally prominent U wave
The Correct Answer is D
A. Inverted P wave: An inverted P wave may indicate atrial depolarization abnormalities but is not typically associated with hypokalemia. It can be seen in conditions such as atrial enlargement or atrial ischemia. However, in hypokalemia, the P wave may become flattened or have a decreased amplitude, but it is less likely to be inverted.
B. Wide QRS: A wide QRS complex may indicate conduction abnormalities or bundle branch blocks, but it is not specifically associated with hypokalemia. Wide QRS complexes are more commonly seen in conditions such as bundle branch blocks or electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia. Hypokalemia tends to cause a prolongation of the QT interval rather than widening of the QRS complex.
C. Elevated ST segment: An elevated ST segment is typically associated with myocardial injury or infarction, not hypokalemia. It can be indicative of conditions such as myocardial ischemia or pericarditis. In hypokalemia, ST segment changes are more likely to be flattened or depressed rather than elevated.
D. Abnormally prominent U wave: An abnormally prominent U wave is a classic EKG finding in hypokalemia. Hypokalemia prolongs the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential, leading to the appearance of U waves following the T wave. These U waves can become more pronounced as potassium levels decrease. Therefore, an abnormally prominent U wave is a significant indicator of hypokalemia on an EKG, especially in a patient with prolonged vomiting, which can lead to potassium depletion. Thus, it is the most pertinent abnormality to interpret in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "If you don't do your share of the work, I will have to inform the nurse manager"
This statement uses a threatening tone and may escalate the conflict. It does not promote open communication or collaboration to resolve the issue. Additionally, threatening to inform the nurse manager immediately can create a hostile work environment.
B. "Several staff members have commented that you don't do your fair share of the work."
While it's important to address concerns, singling out the staff nurse in front of others may cause embarrassment and defensiveness. It's better to address the issue privately to avoid further conflict and maintain professionalism.
C. "I need to talk to you about unit expectations regarding delegating and completing tasks."
This statement acknowledges the need for a discussion about unit expectations regarding delegating and completing tasks. By expressing the intention to have a conversation, it opens the door for dialogue and collaboration between the charge nurse and the staff nurse. This approach promotes a supportive and constructive environment for resolving conflicts and addressing concerns.
D. "You have been very inconsiderate of others by not completing your share of the work."
This statement is accusatory and confrontational, which can lead to defensiveness and resistance from the staff nurse. It does not facilitate effective communication or problem-solving. Constructive dialogue is essential for addressing conflicts and finding mutually beneficial solutions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Crushing the medication might cause you to have a stomachache or indigestion."
This response provides a potential adverse effect of crushing the medication but does not directly address the reason why the aspirin should not be crushed.
B. "Crushing the medication is a good idea, and I can mix it in some ice cream for you."
This response suggests a solution to the client's difficulty swallowing medication but does not address the safety or efficacy concerns associated with crushing enteric-coated aspirin.
C. "Crushing is unsafe, as it destroys the ingredients in the medication."
While crushing enteric-coated aspirin may alter its release properties, it does not necessarily "destroy" the ingredients. This statement may be too absolute and not entirely accurate.
D. "Crushing the medication would release all the medication at once, rather than over time."
This response accurately explains why enteric-coated aspirin should not be crushed. Enteric coating is designed to prevent dissolution of the medication in the stomach and instead release it in the small intestine to reduce the risk of gastric irritation or ulceration. Crushing the medication would bypass this delayed release mechanism, potentially leading to increased gastric irritation or adverse effects.
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