A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has bulimia nervosa. The nurse should notify the provider of which of the following results?
Potassium 3.2 mEq/L
WBC 5,200/mm3
Hgb 14 g/dL
Magnesium 1.6 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is A
Low potassium levels, known as hypokalemia, can be a significant concern in individuals with bulimia nervosa due to the frequent purging behaviors associated with the condition. Purging, such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives or diuretics, can lead to excessive loss of potassium from the body. Hypokalemia can have serious consequences, including cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, fatigue, and even life-threatening complications.
The normal range for potassium is typically around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. With a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L falling below the normal range, it indicates a low potassium level and requires prompt attention.
The other laboratory results mentioned in the question are within normal ranges:
● A WBC (white blood cell) count of 5,200/mm3 falls within the normal range (typically between 4,500 and 11,000/mm3) and indicates a normal white blood cell count.
● An Hgb (hemoglobin) level of 14 g/dL falls within the normal range (typically between 12 and 16 g/dL) and indicates a normal hemoglobin level.
● A magnesium level of 1.6 mEq/L, although slightly low, is still within the normal range (typically between 1.5 and 2.5 mEq/L). The nurse should monitor it closely and assess for symptoms associated with hypomagnesemia. If the client's symptoms or other clinical indications suggest a significant magnesium imbalance, the healthcare provider should be notified.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that is commonly prescribed for various conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. However, corticosteroids can impair wound healing by reducing the body's inflammatory response, delaying collagen synthesis, and weakening the tensile strength of the wound. This increases the risk of wound dehiscence, which is the separation or opening of surgical incisions.
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid production and prevent gastric ulcers but does not directly affect wound healing or increase the risk of wound dehiscence.
Zolmitriptan is a medication used for the acute treatment of migraines and does not directly affect wound healing or increase the risk of wound dehiscence.
Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions. It does not directly affect wound healing or increase the risk of wound dehiscence.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
"Eat protein at each meal": This is an important instruction for a client with dumping syndrome. Including protein at each meal can help slow down the digestion process and reduce the rapid emptying of the stomach contents into the small intestine, which is characteristic of dumping syndrome. Protein takes longer to digest and can help stabilize blood sugar levels, promote satiety, and minimize the symptoms of dumping syndrome.
"Consume three large meals daily": Consuming three large meals daily is not recommended for clients with dumping syndrome. Large meals can exacerbate the symptoms by overloading the digestive system. Instead, it is generally advised to consume smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help manage dumping syndrome symptoms.
"Drink beverages with meals": It is not recommended to drink beverages with meals for clients with dumping syndrome. Consuming liquids with meals can further contribute to the rapid emptying of the stomach contents and worsen symptoms. It is preferable to drink fluids between meals to maintain hydration without affecting the digestion process.
"Sit up in bed after meals": This instruction is relevant for clients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) but may not be specifically related to dumping syndrome. In the case of dumping syndrome, it is generally recommended to remain in an upright position after meals to aid digestion and reduce symptoms, such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.
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