Blood is drawn on a patient who has been chronically ill. The lab results include a potassium level of 2.4. Related to influences on the heart's electrical conduction, an expected sequela of this electrolyte disturbance might be
hypopolarization of sino-atrial node (SA node).
increased heart rate from stimulation of the vagus nerve.
heart rate of 40 beats/minute.
heart rate of 150 beats/minute.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypokalemia causes hyperpolarization, not hypopolarization, making it more difficult for cells to reach an action potential.
B. Hypokalemia does not stimulate the vagus nerve but can lead to arrhythmias.
C. While hypokalemia can cause arrhythmias, it usually leads to tachycardia or other irregular rhythms rather than a bradycardic rate of 40 beats per minute.
D. Low potassium levels can lead to tachycardia (e.g., a heart rate of 150 beats per minute) and other dangerous arrhythmias due to increased irritability of cardiac cells.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Troponin is a biomarker used to diagnose myocardial infarction (heart attack), not heart failure.
B. Calcium levels are important for overall metabolic function but are not specific for heart failure.
C. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is elevated in heart failure, specifically in left heart failure, and helps confirm the diagnosis. BNP is a hormone released by the ventricles in response to increased pressure and volume.
D. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of inflammation but does not specifically confirm a heart failure diagnosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Long-term hypertension can lead to renal damage, resulting in glomerular injury and subsequent hematuria and proteinuria. ACE inhibitors help to protect renal function by reducing pressure in the glomeruli.
B. Venous insufficiency is generally not a direct complication of hypertension; it is more associated with conditions affecting venous return.
C. Increased elastase activity is related to the breakdown of elastin and is not a direct consequence of hypertension or the primary focus of ACE inhibitor therapy.
D. Decreased high-density lipoproteins (HDL) is not a direct complication of hypertension and does not specifically relate to the effects of ACE inhibitors.
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