A postoperative patient is diagnosed with fluid volume overload. What should the nurse expect to assess in this patient?

Choice A Reason: This is correct because almonds are a rich source of magnesium, which is a mineral that is essential for nerve and muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and bone health. A serum magnesium level of 1.4 mg/dL indicates hypomagnesemia, which is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Hypomagnesemia can cause muscle weakness, cramps, tremors, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. The nurse should encourage the patient to eat foods high in magnesium, such as almonds, which contain about 80 mg of magnesium per ounce.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because white rice is a poor source of magnesium, as most of the magnesium is lost during the refining process. White rice contains only about 19 mg of magnesium per cup, which is not enough to meet the daily requirement of 310 to 420 mg for adults. The nurse should advise the patient to choose whole grains instead of refined grains, as they have more magnesium and other nutrients.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because seafood is a moderate source of magnesium, but not as high as almonds or other nuts and seeds. Seafood contains about 30 to 50 mg of magnesium per 3-ounce serving, depending on the

type and preparation method. The nurse should inform the patient that seafood can be part of a balanced diet, but it

is not the best choice for increasing magnesium intake.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because lean red meat is a low source of magnesium, as most of the magnesium is found in the bones and organs of animals. Lean red meat contains only about 20 mg of magnesium per 3-ounce serving, which is less than 10% of the daily requirement. The nurse should caution the patient that lean red meat can also be high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Choice E Reason: This is incorrect because romaine letuce is a very low source of magnesium, as most leafy greens have low mineral content due to their high water content. Romaine letuce contains only about 7 mg of magnesium per cup, which is negligible compared to the daily requirement. The nurse should suggest the patient to add other vegetables that are higher in magnesium, such as spinach, broccoli, or potatoes, to their salads.

Choice A Reason: This is correct because using an infusion controller for the IV ensures that the KCL is delivered at a safe and accurate rate. KCL can cause cardiac arrest if infused too rapidly or in excess.

Choice B Reason: This is correct because adding the ordered dose to the IV bag hanging dilutes the KCL and reduces the risk of phlebitis and extravasation. KCL is irritating to the veins and can cause tissue damage if it leaks out of the vein.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because monitoring the injection site for redness can help detect signs of phlebitis and extravasation. The nurse should stop the infusion and notify the provider if these complications occur.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because monitoring fluid intake and output is not directly related to administering KCL. However, the nurse should monitor the patient's serum potassium level and renal function before and during KCL therapy, as kidney impairment can cause hyperkalemia.

Choice E Reason: This is incorrect because administering the dose IV push over 3 minutes is dangerous and contraindicated. KCL should never be given by IV push, bolus, or undiluted, as it can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias.