A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking furosemide and notes the client's potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client's hypokalemia?
Hypoglycemia
Hyperreflexia
Cardiac dysrhythmias
Increased appetite
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. While both conditions can occur due to certain diseases or medication use, they are not directly related.
B. Hyperreflexia: Hyperreflexia, a condition characterized by overactive reflexes, is not a common symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and potentially cardiac dysrhythmias. It does not typically cause an overactive reflex response.
C. Cardiac dysrhythmias: This is correct. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining normal electrical activity in the heart. When potassium levels are low, it can disrupt this electrical activity, leading to irregular heart rhythms.
D. Increased appetite: Increased appetite is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia. In fact, loss of appetite is more commonly associated with this condition. Severe hypokalemia can affect the functioning of the muscles in the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Recent oral intake: This information is crucial because pyridostigmine is typically administered orally and can interact with food, affecting its absorption. Ensuring that the client has recently eaten or will eat soon is essential to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and optimize medication absorption.
B) Trouble sleeping: While sleep disturbances can be a concern, particularly if they worsen with medication use, they may not be the most critical information to obtain before administering pyridostigmine. However, if the client experiences worsening sleep disturbances after starting the medication, it should be reported to the healthcare provider.
C) Unexplained weight loss: While weight loss can be a symptom of myasthenia gravis, it may not be directly related to the administration of pyridostigmine. However, if the client experiences significant weight loss or other unexplained symptoms, further assessment and evaluation may be necessary.
D) Difficulty with urination: Pyridostigmine can affect bladder function and may exacerbate urinary retention, especially in clients with myasthenia gravis. However, obtaining information about the client's recent oral intake is more crucial to ensure optimal medication absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Difficulty with urination should still be monitored, but it may not be the most immediate concern before administering the medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "My mouth is very dry."
Dry mouth is a common side effect of lorazepam, but it does not directly indicate the effectiveness of the medication in reducing preoperative anxiety.
B. "My leg feels numb."
Numbness in the leg is not a typical effect of lorazepam and does not indicate the effectiveness of the medication in reducing preoperative anxiety.
C. "I feel very sleepy."
Feeling sleepy or drowsy is a common side effect of lorazepam, and it indicates that the medication has effectively reduced the client's preoperative anxiety.
D. "I am not hungry any longer."
Decreased appetite can be a side effect of lorazepam, but it is not a direct indicator of the medication's effectiveness in reducing preoperative anxiety.
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