A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of an older adult client who has primary aldosteronism and reports needing to urinate three to four times during the night. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances should the nurse expect?
Decreased magnesium level
Decreased total calcium level
Elevated phosphate level
Elevated sodium level
The Correct Answer is D
A) Decreased magnesium level: Primary aldosteronism typically affects sodium and potassium balance, but it is less likely to cause significant changes in magnesium levels. Therefore, a decreased magnesium level is not the expected electrolyte imbalance in this condition.
B) Decreased total calcium level: Primary aldosteronism does not primarily affect calcium metabolism. While calcium levels could be influenced indirectly, they are not a primary concern in this disorder. Hence, a decreased total calcium level is not expected.
C) Elevated phosphate level: Phosphate levels are generally not directly influenced by aldosterone. Elevated phosphate levels might be seen in other conditions, but they are not characteristic of primary aldosteronism.
D) Elevated sodium level: Primary aldosteronism leads to excess production of aldosterone, which promotes sodium retention by the kidneys. This retention causes elevated sodium levels, resulting in hypernatremia, and contributes to symptoms like frequent urination due to the body's attempt to excrete excess sodium through increased urine production.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Keep client in semi-Fowler's position with right extremity flat: Semi-Fowler's position is not optimal for a client with a compound fracture of the right tibia. Elevating the affected extremity, rather than keeping it flat, can help reduce swelling and pain.
B) Manage pain with oral opioids every 6 hr: While managing pain is crucial, oral opioids may not provide immediate relief needed in acute settings. Pain management should include a combination of strategies and may require IV analgesics for quicker relief.
C) Check capillary refill hourly for the first 24 hr: Although monitoring capillary refill is important to assess circulation, it is only one aspect of monitoring. Comprehensive assessment includes checking for signs of infection, neurovascular status, and compartment syndrome.
D) Apply a compression dressing over the fracture site: Applying a compression dressing can help control bleeding and reduce swelling. In a compound fracture, managing external bleeding and providing some stability to the fracture site are immediate priorities. However, the nurse should ensure this is done without compromising circulation and should be guided by physician orders.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Offer the client a small meal if she is not nauseated:
While eating a small meal can help raise blood glucose levels, it is not the immediate priority in a severe hypoglycemia situation. The client might be unconscious or unable to swallow safely, making this action inappropriate as a first step.
B) Administer 1 mg of glucagon intramuscularly to the client:
Administering glucagon intramuscularly is the most crucial initial action. Glucagon rapidly increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver. This is vital for quickly reversing severe hypoglycemia, especially if the client is unconscious or unable to ingest carbohydrates orally.
C) Contact the client's provider for further instructions:
Contacting the provider is essential, but it should occur after addressing the immediate hypoglycemic episode. Once the client's condition stabilizes, further guidance can be sought from the healthcare provider.
D) Transport the client to an emergency department for treatment:
Transporting the client to the emergency department is necessary if the hypoglycemia does not improve after administering glucagon or if the client remains unresponsive. However, it is not the first action; immediate glucagon administration takes precedence to stabilize the client's condition before considering transportation.
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.
