A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide. Which of the following results should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Phosphorus 4.5 mEq/L.

Potassium 2.9 mEq/L.

Calcium 8.2 mg/dL.

Sodium 145 mEq/L.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

A phosphorus level of 4.5 mEq/L falls within the normal range, which is typically between 2.5 to 4.5 mEq/L. Although it's essential to monitor phosphorus levels, it is not the priority finding in this scenario.

Choice B rationale:

A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is the priority finding. The normal range for potassium is typically between 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L indicates severe hypokalemia, which can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Immediate intervention is necessary to address the potassium imbalance.

Choice C rationale:

A calcium level of 8.2 mg/dL falls within the normal range (typically 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL). While calcium levels are essential to monitor, they do not take precedence over the critically low potassium level in this situation.

Choice D rationale:

A sodium level of 145 mEq/L falls within the normal range, which is usually around 135 to 145 mEq/L. Although monitoring sodium levels is important, it is not the priority finding when compared to the critically low potassium level.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Sodium level is a laboratory parameter that can be helpful in assessing fluid balance, but it does not directly measure fluid retention. Abnormal sodium levels may indicate fluid imbalances, but it is not the most reliable measure of fluid retention.

Choice B rationale:

Tissue turgor refers to the skin's elasticity, and it can be used to assess dehydration rather than fluid retention. Poor turgor may indicate dehydration, but it does not specifically measure fluid volume increase.

Choice C rationale:

Daily weight is a reliable measure of fluid retention. An increase in weight over a short period may indicate fluid accumulation in the body, while a decrease in weight could signify fluid loss. It is essential to monitor weight consistently under standardized conditions (e.g., same time, same clothing) for accurate assessment.

Choice D rationale:

Intake and output records provide information about fluid intake and output but may not always reflect fluid retention accurately. It is helpful for assessing fluid balance, but daily weight is a more direct and reliable measure of fluid retention.

A. Respiratory acidosis. B. Metabolic acidosis. C. Metabolic alkalosis. D. Respiratory alkalosis.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

The arterial blood gas results show a low pH (acidosis) and an elevated Paco2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide), which indicates respiratory acidosis. This condition occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide through ventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbonic acid in the blood and a decrease in pH.

Choice B rationale:

Metabolic acidosis would present with a low pH and a low bicarbonate (HCO3-) level, not an elevated Paco2.

Choice C rationale:

Metabolic alkalosis would present with a high pH and an elevated bicarbonate (HCO3-) level, not an elevated Paco2.

Choice D rationale:

Respiratory alkalosis would present with a high pH and a decreased Paco2, not an elevated Paco2 as seen in this case.

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A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide. Which of the following results should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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