A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking a loop diuretic 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: Hypokalemia is not typically associated with hypoglycemia.
b. Hyperreflexia: Hypokalemia can lead to decreased reflexes, not hyperreflexia.
c. Cardiac dysrhythmias: Hypokalemia can cause disturbances in cardiac conduction, potentially leading to dysrhythmias.
d. Increased appetite: Increased appetite is not a common manifestation of hypokalemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Increasing dyspnea: Atelectasis is the collapse of alveoli, leading to decreased lung volume and impaired gas exchange. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) is a common symptom as the lung's ability to oxygenate the blood is compromised.
b. Dry cough: A dry cough may be present, but it is not specific to atelectasis. It can occur for various reasons postoperatively.
c. Facial flushing: Facial flushing is not a typical finding in atelectasis. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as fever or allergic reactions.
d. Decreasing respiratory rate: Atelectasis can lead to increased respiratory rate as the body tries to compensate for decreased lung function. A decreasing respiratory rate would be less likely in the presence of atelectasis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. Blood glucose 150 mg/dL: While elevated blood glucose may be a concern, potassium levels are more critical in the context of acute gastroenteritis, which can lead to fluid and electrolyte
imbalances.
b. Urine specific gravity 1.035: Elevated urine specific gravity indicates concentrated urine and possible dehydration. However, the low potassium level takes precedence as it can lead to
serious cardiac complications.
c. Weight loss of 3% of total body weight: Weight loss is a concern, but the immediate risk of hypokalemia (low potassium) takes priority.
d. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This low potassium level is a critical finding that requires prompt attention, as it can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and other serious complications.
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