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. Weak pulse: Isotonic fluid-volume deficit results in decreased blood volume, leading to reduced cardiac output and a weak, thready pulse.
B. Distended neck veins: This is associated with fluid volume excess, not deficit.
C. Bradycardia: Fluid deficit typically leads to tachycardia as the body compensates for decreased circulating volume.
D. Pitting edema: This is a sign of fluid overload rather than deficit.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hematocrit 45% (37% to 52%): This value is within the normal range for hematocrit. Dehydration may increase the hematocrit due to a relative increase in red blood cell concentration, but 45% is still within normal limits.
B. Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL (0.5-1.2 mg/dL): This value is within the normal range for creatinine, indicating normal kidney function.
C. BUN 25 mg/dL (10-20 mg/dL): An elevated BUN level is a sign of dehydration as it reflects increased protein breakdown and decreased renal perfusion. This value is above the normal range and should be reported to the provider.
D. Urine specific gravity 1.028 (1.005 to 1.030): This value is within the normal range and indicates that the kidneys are concentrating urine, which is typical in dehydration as the body tries to conserve water.
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