A patient admitted with acute kidney injury due to dehydration has oliguria, anemia, and hyperkalemia. Which prescribed action should the nurse take first?
Place the patient on a cardiac monitor.
Insert a urinary retention catheter.
Give the prescribed spironolactone.
Administer epoetin alfa (Epogen).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
In the case of hyperkalemia, which can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias, the most immediate nursing action is to place the patient on a cardiac monitor. This allows for continuous monitoring of the heart's rhythm and immediate detection of any life-threatening changes, which is crucial for timely intervention.
Choice B rationale
Inserting a urinary retention catheter may be necessary for managing oliguria, but it is not the most urgent action when compared to the potential cardiac risks associated with hyperkalemia.
Choice C rationale
Administering spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, could be part of the treatment for hyperkalemia, but it is not the first action to take. Spironolactone works more slowly and does not address the immediate risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Choice D rationale
Epoetin alfa (Epogen) is used to treat anemia, particularly in chronic kidney disease, to increase red blood cell production. However, it does not have an immediate effect and is not the priority in the presence of hyperkalemia and potential cardiac complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Immobility is a significant risk factor for DVT as it can lead to stagnation of blood in the veins, increasing the risk of clot formation.
Choice B rationale
High calcium intake is not typically associated with an increased risk of DVT. Instead, factors like immobility, certain medications, and medical conditions are more influential.
Choice C rationale
Oral contraceptive use, especially those containing estrogen, can increase the risk of DVT due to their effect on blood clotting mechanisms.
Choice D rationale
A BMI of 20 is considered within the normal range and is not a risk factor for DVT. Obesity, which is a BMI of 30 or higher, would be a risk factor.
Choice E rationale
Hypertension itself is not a direct risk factor for DVT. However, it can be associated with other health conditions that may increase the risk of thrombosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A high calcium diet and hypercalcemia are not directly associated with pyelonephritis. While dietary habits and blood calcium levels can impact overall health, they do not typically contribute to the development of pyelonephritis.
Choice B rationale
Long-term use of ibuprofen can lead to kidney damage, which may increase the risk of pyelonephritis, especially if there is pre-existing kidney impairment. However, it is not as directly related to pyelonephritis as a history of UTIs.
Choice C rationale
A history of UTIs is relevant to pyelonephritis, as the infection can ascend from the lower urinary tract to the kidneys. Recurrent UTIs are a risk factor for pyelonephritis, making this the most likely report from the client.
Choice D rationale
Genetic diseases can have various impacts on health, but there is no common genetic disease that directly causes pyelonephritis. This choice is less likely to be relevant to the client's current condition.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.