A nurse is reviewing the serum laboratory findings for a client who has hypertension and is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?.
Potassium 2.3 mEq/L.
Chloride 99 mEq/L.
Sodium 136 mEq/L.
Calcium 10 mg/dL.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Potassium 2.3 mEq/L is below the normal range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L1. Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, can cause hypokalemia, which is a low level of potassium.
Choice B rationale:
Chloride 99 mEq/L is within the normal range of 96 to 106 mEq/L2, so it’s not a concern.
Choice C rationale:
Sodium 136 mEq/L is within the normal range of 135 to 145 mEq/L3, so it’s not a concern.
Choice D rationale:
Calcium 10 mg/dL is within the normal range of 8.6 to 10.2 mg/dL4, so it’s not a concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Apneustic respirations are characterized by prolonged inspiratory phase with shortened expiratory phase, not alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea.
Choice B rationale:
Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow, not a pattern of breathing.
Choice C rationale:
Kussmaul respirations are deep and labored breathing pattern often associated with severe metabolic acidosis, particularly diabetic ketoacidosis, not alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea.
Choice D rationale:
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Applying a cold pack to the client’s upper arm would not be the first action to take. It may help reduce swelling, but it does not address the underlying issue.
Choice B rationale:
Measuring the circumference of both upper arms is the correct first action. This will provide objective data about the extent of the swelling, which can then be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale:
Removing the PICC line is not the first action to take. This should only be done under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Choice D rationale:
Notifying the provider who inserted the PICC line is important, but it should be done after gathering all necessary data, including measuring the arm circumference.
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