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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A, D, and E.
Choice A rationale:
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes diuresis, causing an increase in urine output. It is essential for the patient to expect this effect and understand that it helps in reducing fluid overload.
Choice B rationale:
Feeling weak and dizzy is not an expected effect of furosemide. It is more commonly associated with dehydration or excessive fluid loss, which can occur if the medication causes too much diuresis.
Choice C rationale:
Taking furosemide before going to sleep is not recommended because it can lead to nighttime diuresis, disrupting sleep and potentially causing electrolyte imbalances.
Choice D rationale:
Swelling of the face or hands may indicate an adverse reaction to furosemide or an underlying medical issue. The nurse should instruct the patient to report any such symptoms promptly.
Choice E rationale:
Monitoring body weight daily is crucial for patients on diuretic therapy to assess fluid status and response to treatment. Rapid weight gain may indicate worsening fluid overload, while significant weight loss may indicate excessive diuresis.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choiceC. Monitor the injection site for redness,D. Use an infusion controller for the IV, andE. Monitor fluid intake and output.
Choice A rationale:
Adding the ordered dose to the IV hanging is incorrect because potassium chloride should never be added to an already hanging IV solution due to the risk of uneven distribution and potential overdose.
Choice B rationale:
Administering the dose IV push over 3 minutes is incorrect because potassium chloride should never be given by direct IV injection.It must always be diluted and administered slowly to prevent cardiac complications.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the injection site for redness is correct because potassium chloride can cause irritation and phlebitis at the injection site.
Choice D rationale:
Using an infusion controller for the IV is correct because it ensures the potassium chloride is administered at a controlled rate, reducing the risk of rapid infusion and potential cardiac issues.
Choice E rationale:
Monitoring fluid intake and output is correct because it helps assess the patient’s overall fluid balance and detect any signs of fluid overload or deficit, which is crucial when administering potassium.
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