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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. A 12-year-old reporting neck, arm, and lower back discomfort:

This child is reporting discomfort, which is concerning, but it doesn't indicate an immediate life-threatening condition. However, a thorough assessment is needed to rule out any serious injuries, especially to the spine.

B. An 8-year-old with a full leg air splint for a possible broken tibia:

While a possible broken tibia requires attention, it is not as immediately critical as symptoms such as projectile vomiting. Splinting can help stabilize the limb, but it is not an emergency that requires immediate attention compared to potential neurological issues.

C. A 6-year-old with multiple superficial lacerations of all extremities:

Superficial lacerations, although they require care, are generally not immediately life-threatening. The child needs appropriate wound care and assessment for any deeper injuries, but this can be addressed in a timely manner without immediate urgency.

D. An 11-year-old with a headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting:

This is the most concerning presentation among the options. Headache, nausea, and projectile vomiting could be indicative of a severe head injury, and these neurological symptoms require urgent evaluation to assess for conditions such as a concussion, intracranial bleed, or increased intracranial pressure.

A. I am at high risk for post-traumatic-stress disorder because I have acute stress B. I can use holistic approaches like meditation to help my symptoms C. I can learn to manage my thoughts better through therapy D. Many people have the same response to a stressful situation as I am having E. This diagnosis means that I am crazy F. I will probably need to be on medication for the rest of my life

Correct Answer is ["A","E","F"]

Explanation

Correct- This statement indicates a misunderstanding about the relationship between acute stress disorder (ASD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While both are related to traumatic events, ASD is considered an initial reaction that typically resolves within three days to four weeks, whereas PTSD involves symptoms persisting for more than a month. The nurse should provide education on the different timelines and criteria for these disorders.
Incorrect- This statement reflects a proactive approach to managing symptoms and stress through holistic methods like meditation. There's no need for follow-up teaching here.
Incorrect- This statement shows the client's recognition of the potential benefits of therapy in managing their thoughts and emotions. It indicates their willingness to engage in effective coping strategies.
Incorrect- This statement reflects an understanding that their response to the traumatic event is not uncommon and that others may have similar reactions. It's a valid perspective on shared experiences during challenging times.
Correct- The statement "This diagnosis means that I am crazy" reflects a common misconception about mental health diagnoses. The term "crazy" is stigmatizing and does not accurately represent the nature of mental health conditions. The nurse should offer reassurance that a diagnosis of ASD does not define a person's overall mental state and emphasize the importance of seeking help without judgment.
Correct- The statement "I will probably need to be on medication for the rest of my life" implies a sense of hopelessness or a narrow perspective about treatment options. While medication might be part of the treatment plan for some individuals, it's important to emphasize that treatment is personalized and can include a combination of therapies, coping strategies, and lifestyle adjustments. The nurse should encourage an open discussion about treatment goals and possibilities.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is triaging several children as they present to the emergency room after a school bus accident. Which child requires the most immediate intervention by the nurse?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is ["A","E","F"]

Explanation

Which instruction should the nurse delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

When should the nurse conduct an Allen's test?

The nurse has completed the diet teaching of a client who is being discharged following treatment of a leg wound. A high protein diet is encouraged to promote wound healing. Which lunch choice by the client Indicates that the teaching was effective?

Exhibits The nurse reviews the physician's orders for clonazepam and gives the medication as ordered. What nursing interventions are appropriate for the client starting clonazepam? Select all that apply.

A client diagnosed with calcium kidney stones has a history of gout. A new prescription for aluminum hydroxide is scheduled to begin at 0730. Which client medication should the nurse bring to the healthcare provider's attention?

The mother of a 2-day-old infant girl expresses concern about a "flea bite" type rash on her daughter's body. The nurse identifies a pink papular rash with vesicles superimposed over the thorax, back, buttocks, and abdomen. Which explanation should the nurse offer?

When providing community healthcare teaching regarding the early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease, which signs should the nurse advise family members to report (Select all that apply)?