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 D

Explanation

The correct answer isd. Assess for indications of pulmonary embolism.

Choice A rationale:

Administering a sedative is not appropriate as the priority intervention. Sedatives can depress respiratory function, which is already compromised in this patient.

Choice B rationale:

Preparing for mechanical ventilation might be necessary if the patient’s condition worsens, but it is not the immediate priority. The priority is to identify the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Massaging the calf area for tenderness is not relevant in this context. While calf tenderness can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to pulmonary embolism, the immediate priority is to assess for pulmonary embolism directly.

Choice D rationale:

Assessing for indications of pulmonary embolism is the priority because the patient’s symptoms (shortness of breath, chest pain, recent use of birth control pills, smoking history, and abnormal ABG values) strongly suggest a pulmonary embolism.Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications.

A. Narcotic. B. Thiazide diuretic. C. Corticosteroid. D. Muscle relaxer.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Narcotics are not known to directly cause hypokalemia. Their main effects are related to pain relief and central nervous system depression.

Choice B rationale:

Thiazide diuretics can cause potassium loss in the urine, leading to hypokalemia. These diuretics work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, which can lead to potassium excretion as well.

Choice C rationale:

Corticosteroids can cause sodium and water retention but are not typically associated with significant potassium abnormalities.

Choice D rationale:

Muscle relaxers are not known to cause hypokalemia. They primarily act on the neuromuscular junction and do not directly impact potassium levels.

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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

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A patient is diagnosed with hypokalemia. After reviewing the patient's current medications, which drug should the nurse consider that might have contributed to the patient's health problem?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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