A patient who is taking a potassium-wasting diuretic for the treatment of hypertension reports generalized weakness. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take?

Ask the patient about loose stools

Suggest that the healthcare provider order a basic metabolic panel

Assess for facial muscle spasms

Call for a rapid response team

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Asking the patient about loose stools is important as it can help identify possible causes of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. However, this question alone would not be the immediate or primary action to take in response to generalized weakness.

Choice B reason: Suggesting that the healthcare provider order a basic metabolic panel is the most appropriate action. Potassium-wasting diuretics can lead to hypokalemia, which can cause symptoms like generalized weakness. A basic metabolic panel will provide information on the patient's electrolyte levels, including potassium, and help determine if the weakness is due to an electrolyte imbalance. This allows for appropriate intervention to correct the imbalance and prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Assessing for facial muscle spasms is relevant because hypokalemia can cause muscle cramps and spasms. However, it does not address the root cause of the weakness and does not lead to immediate intervention.

Choice D reason: Calling for a rapid response team is generally reserved for situations where the patient is experiencing acute, life-threatening symptoms requiring immediate intervention. Generalized weakness in the context of a patient on a potassium-wasting diuretic does not usually necessitate such an urgent response unless it progresses to more severe symptoms.

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

Choice A reason: Subcutaneous administration of anticoagulants like Lovenox (enoxaparin) or heparin is a common and effective method for preventing DVT and VTE. These medications help prevent clot formation by thinning the blood and reducing the risk of thrombus development.

Choice B reason: Graduated compression stockings, such as thromboembolic deterrent (TED) hose, are used to improve blood flow in the legs and prevent the formation of blood clots. They apply consistent pressure to the legs, helping to maintain venous return and reduce the risk of DVT.

Choice C reason: Intermittent pneumatic compression devices (IPCs) are also used to prevent DVT and VTE. These devices periodically inflate and deflate, applying pressure to the legs to stimulate blood flow and prevent blood stasis, which can lead to clot formation.

Choice D reason: Strict bed rest is not recommended for DVT and VTE prevention. Prolonged immobility can increase the risk of clot formation. Encouraging early mobilization and activity is crucial to reduce the risk of DVT.

Choice E reason: Early and aggressive mobilization is a key strategy in preventing DVT and VTE. Encouraging patients to move and engage in physical activity as soon as it is safe to do so helps promote blood circulation and prevent the development of blood clots.

A. Metabolic acidosis B. Metabolic alkalosis C. Respiratory acidosis D. Respiratory alkalosis

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH (less than 7.35) due to a primary decrease in bicarbonate (HCO₃). The arterial blood gas results in this scenario do not indicate metabolic acidosis, as the pH is elevated and HCO₃ is within the normal range.

Choice B reason: Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH (greater than 7.45) due to a primary increase in bicarbonate (HCO₃). In this case, the pH is indeed elevated, but the bicarbonate level is normal, making this condition unlikely.

Choice C reason: Respiratory acidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood pH (less than 7.35) due to a primary increase in PaCO₂. The arterial blood gas results show an elevated pH and a decreased PaCO₂, which are not consistent with respiratory acidosis.

Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by an increase in blood pH (greater than 7.45) due to a primary decrease in PaCO₂. In this scenario, the pH is elevated at 7.48, and the PaCO₂ is decreased at 32 mm Hg, indicating respiratory alkalosis. The bicarbonate level is within the normal range, further supporting this interpretation.

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A patient who is taking a potassium-wasting diuretic for the treatment of hypertension reports generalized weakness. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention methods include which of the following? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]

Explanation

A patient who was involved in a motor vehicle crash has had a tracheostomy placed to allow for continued mechanical ventilation. How should the nurse interpret the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.48, PaO₂ 85 mm Hg, PaCO₂ 32 mm Hg, and HCO₃ 25 mEq/L?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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