A patient prescribed spironolactone is demonstrating ECG changes and complaining of muscle weakness. The nurse realizes this patient is exhibiting signs of which electrolyte imbalance?
Hypocalcemia.
Hypercalcemia.
Hyperkalemia.
Hypokalemia.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Hypocalcemia refers to low levels of calcium in the blood, which can present with symptoms like muscle cramps, numbness, and tingling. However, this choice is not relevant to the patient's symptoms in the scenario.
Choice B rationale:
Hypercalcemia is an electrolyte imbalance characterized by high levels of calcium in the blood. It can lead to ECG changes and symptoms like muscle weakness, confusion, and constipation. However, this is not the correct answer in the given scenario.
Choice C rationale:
The patient's symptoms of ECG changes and muscle weakness are consistent with hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, and its use can lead to increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can affect the heart's electrical activity and cause muscle weakness.
Choice D rationale:
Hypokalemia is a condition where there is a low level of potassium in the blood. It can lead to muscle weakness, ECG changes, and other symptoms, but it is not the correct answer in this specific situation involving spironolactone use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Extracellular fluid deficit.
Choice A rationale:
Intracellular fluid deficit is a decrease in the fluid inside the cells, which may occur in conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Severe burns are more likely to cause extracellular fluid shifts rather than intracellular fluid deficits.
Choice B rationale:
Interstitial fluid deficit involves a decrease in fluid in the interstitial spaces between cells. While burns can lead to fluid shifts, the primary concern is fluid loss from the vascular space (extracellular fluid).
Choice C rationale:
Intracellular fluid overload is not a typical health problem associated with severe burns. Burn injuries are more likely to cause fluid loss and shifts out of the intracellular space.
Choice D rationale:
Severe burns can result in significant loss of plasma and extracellular fluid, leading to hypovolemia and extracellular fluid deficit. This fluid loss can lead to hypovolemic shock and other complications if not adequately managed.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choices A, B, and D. Here are the rationales for each choice:
Choice A rationale:
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium. One medium sweet potato contains about 542 mg of potassium, making it a great option for a high-potassium diet.
Choice B rationale:
Bananas are well-known for their high potassium content. A medium banana provides approximately 451 mg of potassium, which is beneficial for maintaining proper muscle and nerve function.
Choice C rationale:
Grapes are not particularly high in potassium compared to other fruits. They contain some potassium, but not enough to be considered a significant source for a high-potassium diet.
Choice D rationale:
Watermelon is a good source of potassium. Two wedges of watermelon contain about 640 mg of potassium, making it a suitable choice for increasing potassium intake.
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.