During a home visit, a client informs the nurse about feeling like the heart is skipping beats. When reviewing the client's record, the nurse notes that the client is taking hydrochlorothiazide. Based on these assessment data, the nurse plans to obtain a blood sample to check for which condition?
Hypokalemia.
Hyponatremia
Hyperphosphatemia.
Hypermagnesemia.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypokalemia: Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that can cause potassium loss through increased urine production. A common side effect of thiazide diuretics is hypokalemia, which can lead to symptoms such as palpitations or the sensation of the heart skipping beats. Therefore, it is crucial to check the client’s potassium levels to determine if hypokalemia is contributing to the client's symptoms.
B. Hyponatremia: While thiazide diuretics can affect sodium levels, hypokalemia is more directly associated with the symptoms described. Hyponatremia (low sodium levels) might also occur but is less commonly linked to the symptom of a skipped heartbeat compared to hypokalemia.
C. Hyperphosphatemia: Hydrochlorothiazide is not known to cause significant changes in phosphate levels, and hyperphosphatemia is not typically associated with the sensation of skipped heartbeats.
D. Hypermagnesemia: This condition, which involves elevated magnesium levels, is not a common side effect of hydrochlorothiazide. Hypokalemia is a more relevant concern for the symptoms described.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Warfarin: Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term anticoagulation, but it is not used for reversing the effects of heparin. They are different classes of anticoagulants with distinct reversal agents.
B. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, not heparin.
C. Protamine sulfate: Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose. It neutralizes the effects of heparin and is used to quickly reverse its anticoagulant effects in case of an overdose or excessive bleeding.
D. Diphenhydramine HCl: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and has no role in reversing anticoagulants.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Maintain a cool, calm room environment: While a calm environment can be beneficial for overall patient well-being, it is not specifically related to the care of a client on clopidogrel. This instruction does not address the direct needs or precautions associated with clopidogrel use.
B) Provide the client with a soft toothbrush: Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication that increases the risk of bleeding. To minimize gum bleeding and oral mucosal damage, it is crucial to use a soft toothbrush to prevent injury. This measure helps to reduce the risk of bleeding complications associated with the medication.
C) Allow the client ample rest periods: While rest is important for overall health, it is not specifically related to the precautions needed for a client on clopidogrel. The primary concern with clopidogrel is managing bleeding risks rather than providing rest.
D) Keep the head of the bed elevated: Elevating the head of the bed is generally useful for managing certain conditions like respiratory issues or gastrointestinal reflux but does not directly relate to the specific needs of a client taking clopidogrel. The focus for clients on clopidogrel should be on preventing bleeding complications.
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