The nurse is preparing to administer IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with hypertension. What is the most important finding to report to the health care provider?

Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dl.

Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg

Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq

Current blood pressure (BP) reading of 166/94 mm Hg

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The most important finding to report to the health care provider would be the serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq. This is an extremely low potassium level (normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), which can indicate a potentially life-threatening condition called hypokalemia. Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic medication that can cause potassium loss in the urine, and a low potassium level can lead to serious cardiac and muscle abnormalities. It is crucial to report this finding promptly to the health care provider for appropriate intervention and monitoring.

Blood glucose level of 175 mg/dL: While an elevated blood glucose level can be a concern, especially for individuals with diabetes, it is not the most critical finding in this situation. The client's primary concern is hypertension, and the administration of IV furosemide is aimed at managing blood pressure. The elevated blood glucose level should still be addressed and monitored, but it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.

Orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg: Orthostatic hypotension refers to a significant decrease in blood pressure upon standing up. While it is important to assess and manage orthostatic changes, a decrease of 12 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure alone may not be considered clinically significant. It could be a normal response for some individuals. However, if the client experiences symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing, further evaluation may be necessary. Nonetheless, it is not as urgent as the low potassium level.

Current blood pressure reading of 166/94 mm Hg: While this blood pressure reading indicates hypertension, it is not the most critical finding to report in this situation. The nurse is preparing to administer furosemide (Lasix), which is a medication commonly used to treat hypertension. It is expected that the blood pressure will be high before administering the medication. The goal is to monitor the blood pressure after the administration to assess the effectiveness of the medication.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Defibrillation is not the first-line treatment for atrial fibrillation. It is used to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia. Atrial fibrillation, on the other hand, is a rapid and irregular atrial rhythm, and defibrillation is not indicated for its treatment.

Obtain consent for transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): This is an appropriate action for a client with atrial fibrillation. A TEE is often performed to assess the structure and function of the heart in cases of atrial fibrillation, especially when considering cardioversion or other interventions.

Obtain consent for cardioversion: Cardioversion is a common treatment option for atrial fibrillation, especially when the client is unstable or experiencing symptoms. It involves restoring a normal heart rhythm through the use of electrical shocks or medications. It is important to obtain informed consent before performing cardioversion, but this does not necessarily require questioning.

Hold digoxin 48 hours prior to cardioversion: Digoxin is commonly held before cardioversion because it can increase the risk of certain arrhythmias during the procedure. This is a standard precaution to minimize potential adverse effects. Therefore, the nurse does not need to question this action, as it aligns with established guidelines.

A. "Increased LDL and decreased HDL increase my risk of coronary artery disease." B. "Increased LDL has the potential to decrease my risk of heart disease." C. "The decreased HDL level will increase the amount of cholesterol moved away from the artery walls." D. "The increased LDL will decrease the amount of cholesterol deposited on the artery walls."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Elevated levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, leading to narrowing and blockage of the arteries supplying the heart. This increases the risk of developing CAD and related complications such as heart attack and stroke.

On the other hand, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver for processing and excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a decreased risk of CAD because it helps to prevent the accumulation of cholesterol on artery walls.

Therefore, understanding that increased LDL and decreased HDL levels increase the risk of coronary artery disease demonstrates a good understanding of the significance of cholesterol levels and their impact on cardiovascular health.

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The nurse is preparing to administer IV furosemide (Lasix) to a client with hypertension. What is the most important finding to report to the health care provider?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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Explanation

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