A patient is diagnosed with hypokalemia. After reviewing the patient's current medications, which drug should the nurse consider that might have contributed to the patient's health problem?
Narcotic.
Thiazide diuretic.
Corticosteroid.
Muscle relaxer.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Narcotics are not known to directly cause hypokalemia. Their main effects are related to pain relief and central nervous system depression.
Choice B rationale:
Thiazide diuretics can cause potassium loss in the urine, leading to hypokalemia. These diuretics work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, which can lead to potassium excretion as well.
Choice C rationale:
Corticosteroids can cause sodium and water retention but are not typically associated with significant potassium abnormalities.
Choice D rationale:
Muscle relaxers are not known to cause hypokalemia. They primarily act on the neuromuscular junction and do not directly impact potassium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Widened QRS Complexes.
Choice A rationale:
Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes are not typical findings in respiratory acidosis. They are more commonly associated with conditions like hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia.
Choice B rationale:
Warm, flushed skin is not directly related to respiratory acidosis. It is not a typical manifestation of this acid-base imbalance.
Choice C rationale:
Widened QRS complexes on an ECG are characteristic findings in respiratory acidosis. Acidosis can lead to changes in the electrical conduction of the heart, resulting in QRS complex widening.
Choice D rationale:
Bounding peripheral pulses are not directly associated with respiratory acidosis. They may be seen in conditions like hyperthyroidism or anemia but are not specific to respiratory acidosis. Remember, always interpret lab results and clinical findings in the context of the patient's overall condition, medical history, and other relevant factors to provide the best care possible.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Metabolic alkalosis.
Choice A rationale:
The given blood gas results show a pH of 7.53, which is alkaline (above the normal range of
7.35 to 7.45), and a high bicarbonate level of 36 mEq/L (normal range is 22 to 26 mEq/L). This combination indicates metabolic alkalosis, a condition where there is an excessive accumulation of bicarbonate in the blood, leading to increased pH.
Choice B rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by increased blood bicarbonate levels, which can occur due to conditions like vomiting, diuretic use, or excessive ingestion of bicarbonate-containing substances. It results in symptoms such as muscle twitching, tetany, and respiratory depression.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an elevated blood pH and low carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia). However, the bicarbonate level is not directly related to respiratory alkalosis, making this choice incorrect based on the given information.
Choice D rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased blood pH and low bicarbonate levels. The presented blood gas results show an alkaline pH and high bicarbonate, making this choice incorrect.
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