The healthcare provider prescribes a 5% dextrose injection 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 [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]
Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)]
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram daily.
Evaluate glucose levels before and after meals.
Monitor and document strict intake and output.
Assess the serum potassium level every 4 hours.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram is important for monitoring cardiac function, it is not as frequent or specific as potassium monitoring for hyperkalemia management.
Choice B reason: Evaluating glucose levels is necessary due to the risk of hypoglycemia from insulin administration, but the priority is monitoring potassium levels in hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason: Monitoring intake and output is part of fluid balance management but is secondary to the critical need to monitor serum potassium levels.
Choice D reason: Frequent assessment of serum potassium levels is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of the dextrose and insulin therapy in lowering potassium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Mild sedation is a common and expected side effect of ramelteon, which is a sedative used to treat insomnia. It is generally not a cause for concern unless it persists or worsens.
Choice B reason: Dizziness reported after the initial dose is also a common side effect of ramelteon. It usually diminishes as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if dizziness persists or is severe, it should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Somnambulism, or sleepwalking, is a serious side effect that should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately. Ramelteon can cause people to engage in activities while not fully awake and have no memory of the activity afterward. This could include walking, driving, eating, or making phone calls, and poses a significant safety risk.
Choice D reason: A change in the sleep-wake cycle is an expected effect of ramelteon, as it is used to manage the sleep-wake cycle in people with insomnia. It is not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless the changes are extreme or cause significant distress.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fat emboli are typically associated with long bone fractures and not commonly linked with dehydration or immobility.
Choice B reason: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common condition in immobile patients, and redness and swelling in the calf are classic signs.
Choice C reason: While infection can cause redness and swelling, it is usually accompanied by other signs such as fever, which is not mentioned here.
Choice D reason: Pulmonary embolism is a complication that can arise from DVT but would not be the direct cause of calf redness and swelling.
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