The nurse is caring for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) receiving intravenous (IV) regular insulin. The most recent potassium was 2.9 mEq/L. The nurse should take which priority action:
Assess the client urine output (UOP)
Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
Notify the primary healthcare provider (PMHCP)
Stop the regular insulin infusion
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale: Assessing the UOP is important, but not as urgent as correcting the potassium imbalance.
Choice B rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead ECG can help monitor the cardiac status, but it does not address the cause of the problem.
Choice C rationale: The PMHCP can order potassium replacement to prevent cardiac arrhythmias and other adverse effects of low potassium levels.
Choice D rationale: Stopping the regular insulin infusion can worsen the DKA and increase the risk of cerebral edema and coma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale: A/V fistula assessment is not concerning because a positive bruit and thrill indicate adequate blood flow through the fistula. A dry dressing with scant amount of blood is expected after hemodialysis.
Choice B rationale: The client's low blood pressure could indicate hypotension, which can be critical, especially after hemodialysis. It may contribute to the client's reported dizziness and fatigue.
Choice C rationale: The client’s pulse is irregular which may indicate cardiac arrhythmia. Choice D rationale: Anuria, the absence of urine output, is a significant concern. It could indicate kidney dysfunction or inadequate clearance of waste products, which may have implications following hemodialysis.
Choice E rationale: Oxygen saturation at 92% is relatively low. While the client is alert and oriented, a low oxygen saturation level may indicate potential respiratory compromise or inadequate oxygenation.
Choice F rationale: Temperature is not concerning because it is within normal range.
Choice G rationale: Neurological assessment is not concerning because the client is alert and oriented. The dizziness is likely related to the hypotension and will resolve once the blood pressure is stabilized.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Assessing the UOP is important, but not as urgent as correcting the potassium imbalance.
Choice B rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead ECG can help monitor the cardiac status, but it does not address the cause of the problem.
Choice C rationale: The PMHCP can order potassium replacement to prevent cardiac arrhythmias and other adverse effects of low potassium levels.
Choice D rationale: Stopping the regular insulin infusion can worsen the DKA and increase the risk of cerebral edema and coma.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
