Patient MK is admited with Atrial Fibrillation an irregular heart rhythm. She is also complaining of muscle cramps to her legs and that she started a new diuretic last week. What lab value are you most likely to find on her Complete Metabolic Panel?
Mg2 – 20 mEq/L
Na+ - 123 mEq/L
Ca2 – 10.0 mg/dl
K+ - - 3.1 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is D
Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia, and diuretics are often used in the management of patients with this condition to help control fluid balance. However, diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances, especially hypokalaemia (low potassium levels), which can lead to muscle cramps and other complications.
A Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures various electrolytes, glucose, and other important components. Among the options given, the most likely lab value to be abnormal in Patient MK's case is a low level of potassium (K+), which is consistent with her symptoms and diuretic use. Option d, K+ -
-
- mEq/L, is the correct option as it represents a low level of potassium, which is defined as a value less than 3.5 mEq/L.
Option a, Mg2 – 20 mEq/L, represents high magnesium levels, which are not typically associated with diuretic use or muscle cramps. Option b, Na+ - 123 mEq/L, represents low sodium levels, which are less likely to occur with diuretic use, and are typically associated with other conditions. Option c, Ca2 – 10.0 mg/dl, represents normal calcium levels and is not typically affected by diuretic use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
. Assess your patient’s lower extremities and lungs for fluid retention.
If a patient’s intake is 2500ml and her output is 1200ml from a catheter bag, and you are concerned that she may not be excreting enough urine for the amount of water she is taking in, the most appropriate next step would be to assess her lower extremities and lungs for fluid retention. This can help determine if the patient is retaining water and if further intervention is necessary.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
AB+ blood type is known as the universal recipient because individuals with this blood type have both A and B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, as well as the Rh antigen. This means that they can receive blood from donors of any ABO blood type (A, B, AB, or O) and Rh factor (positive or negative) without experiencing a transfusion reaction.
Therefore, in the case of a patient who will be needing a blood transfusion, if the nurse knows that the patient's blood type is unknown, it is ideal to give them AB+ blood type as it is considered the safest option.
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