A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client and identifies a serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Lactulose
Acetylcysteine
Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate)
Triamterene
The Correct Answer is C
A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels, not for hyperkalemia.
B. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic agent, not for hyperkalemia.
C. Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate): Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium for potassium in the intestines, promoting the elimination of potassium through the stool. This is the correct treatment for a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which is dangerously high.
D. Triamterene: Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic and would worsen hyperkalemia, not treat it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Upright: Sitting upright promotes optimal lung expansion by reducing pressure on the diaphragm and improving ventilation.
B. Side-lying: This may be used for comfort but does not maximize lung expansion.
C. Supine: Lying flat can compromise lung expansion, particularly in respiratory distress.
D. Prone: While prone positioning is used in specific cases of severe respiratory failure (e.g., ARDS), it is not standard for general pneumonia in children.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L): This sodium level is within the normal range and is not of concern.
B. Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L): This value is below the normal range, indicating hypomagnesemia, which can cause serious complications such as arrhythmias, neuromuscular irritability, and seizures. This is the most concerning value.
C. Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL): This calcium level is within the normal range and is not concerning.
D. Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L): This potassium level is at the low end of normal. While it is something to monitor, it is not immediately concerning compared to hypomagnesemia.
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