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 {"dropdown-group-1":"C"}
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Target conditions are not mentioned in the sentence, and there is no context to suggest their relevance to the client's situation.
Choice B rationale:
Hyperactive reflexes are not commonly associated with a urinary tract infection or the prescribed medications.
Choice C rationale:
The client with a urinary tract infection and the medications mentioned (Furosemide and Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) are at an increased risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to Furosemide's diuretic effect, fluid volume deficit (dehydration) from the infection, and hypertension (high blood pressure) as a potential side effect of Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.
Choice D rationale:
Urinary retention is not expected in a client with a urinary tract infection; it is more commonly associated with urinary obstruction or other urinary conditions unrelated to an infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypophosphatemia is a condition characterized by low levels of phosphate in the blood, which can be caused by various factors, including malnutrition. In this case, the patient has a history of stomach ulcers, which might have contributed to poor nutrient absorption. The nurse should request a dietitian consult to ensure the patient receives an appropriate diet rich in phosphorus, which is essential for cellular function, bone health, and energy metabolism.
Choice B rationale:
Providing aluminum hydroxide antacids as prescribed is not the appropriate intervention for hypophosphatemia. Aluminum hydroxide antacids can bind to phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its absorption and potentially worsening the patient's already low phosphate levels.
Choice C rationale:
Instructing the patient to avoid poultry, peanuts, and seeds is not suitable for this situation. These foods are good sources of phosphorus, and avoiding them would further deplete the patient's already low phosphate levels.
Choice D rationale:
Instructing the patient to avoid the intake of sodium phosphate is not necessary for hypophosphatemia. While sodium phosphate preparations are used as laxatives, there is no indication that the patient is taking them, and they are not relevant to the management of hypophosphatemia.
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