How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

The nurse is assessing a patient with Cushing syndrome. Which finding should the nurse report for immediate follow-up?

A.

Serum potassium 2.5 mEq/L and blood pressure 150/90 mmHg

B.

Serum phosphorus 3 mg/dL and hirsutism

C.

Serum calcium 10 mg/dl, and reports of feelings of depression

D.

Serum sodium 145 mEq/L and reports of muscle weakness

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Serum potassium 2.5 mEq/L and blood pressure 150/90 mmHg - This combination of severe hypokalemia (low potassium) and elevated blood pressure is a concerning finding. It can lead to serious cardiac complications and requires immediate attention. 

B. Serum phosphorus 3 mg/dL and hirsutism - While low serum phosphorus may be seen in  Cushing syndrome, it is not an immediate concern. Hirsutism (excessive hair growth) is a  characteristic feature of Cushing syndrome. 

C. Serum calcium 10 mg/dL, and reports of feelings of depression - Although an elevated serum calcium level is not typical in Cushing syndrome, it is not an immediate concern. Reports of depression should be addressed but do not require immediate follow-up. 

D. Serum sodium 145 mEq/L and reports of muscle weakness - These findings are not indicative of immediate danger. Elevated serum sodium and muscle weakness can occur in Cushing syndrome, but they do not warrant immediate attention compared to the potassium level and blood pressure in option A.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

A. Incorrect. Sustaining hyperglycemia is not a recommended approach. In fact, it is crucial to maintain blood glucose levels within a target range to prevent complications associated with diabetes.

B. Correct. Maintaining optimal blood pressure is important for preventing kidney damage, which is a common complication of diabetes. High blood pressure can exacerbate kidney problems in individuals with diabetes.

C. Correct. Reducing cholesterol and saturated fat intake is important for managing cardiovascular risk factors associated with diabetes. Elevated cholesterol levels are a risk factor for heart disease, which is more prevalent in individuals with diabetes.

D. Correct. Enrolling in a smoking cessation program is essential. Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is already elevated in individuals with diabetes. Quitting smoking is a crucial step in reducing this risk.

E. Correct. Increasing physical activity is an important component of diabetes management. Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. This option corresponds to the blood glucose range of 151-200. However, the patient's current blood glucose level is 264, which falls into the range of 251-300. Therefore, administering 2 units would not be appropriate in this case.

B. The patient's current blood glucose level is 264, which falls into the range of 251-300. According to the sliding scale insulin aspart orders, for this range, 6 units should be administered. This option aligns with the patient's blood glucose level and the prescribed protocol.

C. This option corresponds to the blood glucose range of 351-400. The patient's blood glucose level of 264 does not fall into this range, so administering 10 units would be excessive and potentially lead to hypoglycemia.

D. This option corresponds to the blood glucose range of 201-250. The patient's current blood glucose level is 264, which falls into the range of 251-300. Therefore, administering 4 units would not be sufficient to address the elevated blood glucose level.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register