A provider orders potassium chloride, 20 mEq, orally, once daily.
The nurse knows that the abbreviation mEq stands for which of the following?
Modified equivalents.
Megaequivalents.
Milliequivalents.
Miniequivalents.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Modified equivalents. This is not the correct answer. The abbreviation "mEq" stands for milliequivalents, not modified equivalents.
Choice B rationale:
Megaequivalents. This is not the correct answer. "Mega" is a prefix indicating a factor of one million. In the context of electrolytes and medications, milliequivalents (mEq) are the appropriate unit of measurement, not megaequivalents.
Choice C rationale:
Milliequivalents. This is the correct answer. Milliequivalents (mEq) are a measure of the chemical combining power of a substance. In medical contexts, mEq is often used to express the amount of electrolytes (such as potassium, sodium, calcium) in a solution or dosage form. It represents 1/1000th of an equivalent, which is the amount of a substance that can react with or replace one mole of hydrogen ions (H+) It is important for healthcare professionals to understand these units when dealing with medications and intravenous fluids, as incorrect administration can lead to serious health complications.
Choice D rationale:
Miniequivalents. This is not the correct answer. "Mini" is not a standard prefix used in the International System of Units (SI) The correct prefix for a thousandth of an equivalent is "milli," making milliequivalents the appropriate unit of measurement for substances like electrolytes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A combining vowel is a vowel (usually "o") that connects a word root to a suffix or another root. It aids in the pronunciation and flow of the word. For example, in the word "gastroenteritis," "o" is the combining vowel that connects the word root "gastr-" (stomach) to the suffix "-itis" (inflammation) Combining vowels do not provide the general meaning of the word.
Choice B rationale:
The word root provides the fundamental meaning of the word. It is the core of the medical term and gives the essential meaning. For example, in the word "cardiology," the word root "cardio-" refers to the heart. Understanding word roots is crucial in comprehending medical terminology.
Choice C rationale:
A suffix is an affix added at the end of a word to form a derivative, indicating a characteristic of a person or thing. For instance, in the word "dermatologist," the suffix "-ologist" indicates a person who studies or practices a particular kind of knowledge, in this case, dermatology (the study of the skin)
Choice D rationale:
A prefix is an affix added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. For example, in the term "preoperative," the prefix "pre-" means before, and it modifies the root word "operative," indicating something that occurs before an operation. Prefixes provide additional information about the word's context but do not give the general meaning of the word itself.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Proper hand-washing technique involves washing hands for at least 20 seconds. This duration ensures thorough cleansing and removal of germs, dirt, and contaminants from the hands. Washing for a shorter time, such as 10 seconds (Choice B), may not effectively eliminate all harmful microorganisms, increasing the risk of infections and transmission of diseases.
Choice B rationale:
Washing hands for only 10 seconds is insufficient to achieve the necessary level of cleanliness. It is essential to follow recommended guidelines to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings and other environments where hygiene is crucial.
Choice C rationale:
Washing hands for 45 seconds (Choice C) is longer than the recommended duration and might not be practical, especially in busy healthcare settings. While thorough hand hygiene is essential, excessively long washing times could lead to reduced compliance among healthcare workers, potentially compromising patient safety.
Choice D rationale:
Proper hand-washing technique involves scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds, making Choice D incorrect. Following the recommended guidelines is crucial to maintaining a safe and hygienic healthcare environment.
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.