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) "Limit sodium intake to 3,500 milligrams per day.":
Limiting sodium intake is crucial for managing heart failure to prevent fluid retention and exacerbation of symptoms. However, the recommended limit is typically much lower, around 1,500 to 2,000 milligrams per day, not 3,500 milligrams.
B) "Take ibuprofen for discomfort.":
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are not recommended for clients with heart failure as they can cause fluid retention, worsen heart failure symptoms, and increase the risk of kidney problems. Alternatives such as acetaminophen are generally safer for pain relief.
C) "Increase the distance you walk by 100 feet daily, even if you feel fatigued.":
While regular exercise is important, clients with heart failure should not push through fatigue, as overexertion can lead to worsening symptoms. Exercise recommendations should be tailored to the individual's tolerance and should be adjusted based on their energy levels.
D) "Include no more than 2,000 milliliters of fluid intake in 24 hours.":
Restricting fluid intake to 2,000 milliliters per day helps prevent fluid overload, which is critical for managing heart failure. Monitoring and limiting fluid intake can help control symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Asking the client how she feels about her understanding of diabetes can provide some insight into her confidence and perceived knowledge. However, it does not objectively measure her actual understanding or ability to apply diabetes management information.
B) Asking the client how often she reads food labels assesses a specific behavior related to diabetes management but does not fully evaluate the client's overall health literacy. The frequency of reading food labels may indicate some level of engagement, but it does not necessarily reflect comprehensive understanding or effective diabetes self-management.
C) Requesting the client to explain what she read from a brief handout about diabetes management provides a direct assessment of her comprehension and retention of diabetes management information. This approach effectively measures her ability to understand and apply critical health information, which is a core component of health literacy.
D) Inquiring about the timing of her last HbA1c test assesses adherence to diabetes monitoring but does not gauge the client's understanding of diabetes management. While important, this question does not provide a clear picture of her health literacy or ability to manage her condition effectively.
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