The healthcare provider prescribes 5% Dextrose Injection, USP with 20 units of regular insulin for a client with a serum potassium level of 6.0 mEq/L (6.0 mmol/L) and glucose level of 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L). Which evaluation is most important for the nurse to include in this client's plan of care?
Reference Range
- Potassium [Reference Range: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]
- Glucose [Reference Range: 0 to 50 years: 74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]
Evaluate glucose levels before and after meals.
Assess the serum potassium level every 4 hours.
Monitor and document strict intake and output.
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram daily.
The Correct Answer is B
The client's serum potassium level is elevated at 6.0 mEq/L (6.0 mmol/L), which is above the normal reference range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L).
Hyperkalemia can have significant cardiac implications, including the potential for life-threatening dysrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of the serum potassium level is crucial to assess the effectiveness of interventions and ensure that potassium levels are within a safe range.
While monitoring glucose levels before and after meals is important for clients receiving insulin therapy, in this scenario, the primary concern is the elevated potassium level.
The nurse should prioritize frequent assessment of the serum potassium level to guide appropriate management and prevent complications associated with hyperkalemia.
Monitoring and documenting strict intake and output are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but in this case, the elevated potassium level takes precedence as it poses a more immediate risk to the client's well-being.
Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) daily may be indicated in some cases of hyperkalemia, as certain ECG changes can be associated with elevated potassium levels. However, the more critical aspect is monitoring the potassium level itself, as ECG changes can occur rapidly and may not always be detectable on a daily basis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The rash described, pink papular rash with vesicles, is consistent with erythema toxicum neonatorum, which is a common skin condition that affects up to 50% of newborns. It typically appears within the first few days of life and resolves without treatment within 5-7 days. The rash is benign and does not require any specific treatment or intervention.
The rash is not due to distended oil glands or a medication reaction, and there is no indication in the scenario that the healthcare provider needs to be notified about the rash. Erythema toxicum neonatorum is a self-limited condition that resolves on its own, so reassurance and education for the parents are appropriate interventions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The presenting symptoms of the infant, including persistent vomiting, poor skin turgor, significant weight loss, and a palpable abdominal mass, indicate a potential serious condition that requires immediate attention. These findings may suggest dehydration, malnutrition, and the presence of an abdominal mass that could be causing gastrointestinal obstruction or other underlying pathology.
Initiating a prescribed IV for parenteral fluid is the priority intervention to address the potential dehydration and fluid imbalance in the infant. This will help restore and maintain adequate hydration while further diagnostic evaluations and interventions are initiated.
Feeding the infant, giving 5% dextrose in water orally, or inserting a nasogastric tube for feeding should not be implemented as the first intervention in this case. It is important to stabilize the infant's fluid status before initiating oral feedings or other interventions to address the underlying cause of the symptoms.
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