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:

Hypocalcemia refers to low levels of calcium in the blood, which can present with symptoms like muscle cramps, numbness, and tingling. However, this choice is not relevant to the patient's symptoms in the scenario.

Choice B rationale:

Hypercalcemia is an electrolyte imbalance characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood. It can lead to ECG changes and symptoms like muscle weakness, confusion, and constipation. However, this is not the correct answer in the given scenario.

Choice C rationale:

The patient's symptoms of ECG changes and muscle weakness are consistent with hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, and its use can lead to increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can affect the heart's electrical activity and cause muscle weakness.

Choice D rationale:

Hypokalemia is a condition where there is a low level of potassium in the blood. It can lead to muscle weakness, ECG changes, and other symptoms, but it is not the correct answer in this specific situation involving spironolactone use.

A. Intracellular fluid deficit. B. Interstitial fluid deficit. C. Intracellular fluid overload. D. Extracellular fluid deficit.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Extracellular fluid deficit.

Choice A rationale:

Intracellular fluid deficit is a decrease in the fluid inside the cells, which may occur in conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Severe burns are more likely to cause extracellular fluid shifts rather than intracellular fluid deficits.

Choice B rationale:

Interstitial fluid deficit involves a decrease in fluid in the interstitial spaces between cells. While burns can lead to fluid shifts, the primary concern is fluid loss from the vascular space (extracellular fluid).

Choice C rationale:

Intracellular fluid overload is not a typical health problem associated with severe burns. Burn injuries are more likely to cause fluid loss and shifts out of the intracellular space.

Choice D rationale:

Severe burns can result in significant loss of plasma and extracellular fluid, leading to hypovolemia and extracellular fluid deficit. This fluid loss can lead to hypovolemic shock and other complications if not adequately managed.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A patient prescribed spironolactone is demonstrating ECG changes and complaining of muscle weakness. The nurse realizes this patient is exhibiting signs of which electrolyte imbalance?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is planning care for a patient with severe burns. What health problem should the nurse realize that this patient could develop?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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