The nurse is reviewing lab values for a patient taking furosemide. Which of these lab values would concern the nurse?
Calcium 9.4 mg/dL
Sodium 140 mEq/L
Potassium 2.5 mEq/L
Magnesium 1.9 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
A. Calcium 9.4 mg/dL: This is within the normal range for calcium (8.5-10.2 mg/dL), so it is not a concern.
B. Sodium 140 mEq/L: This value is within the normal range for sodium (135-145 mEq/L), so it is not a concern.
C. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: This is below the normal range for potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which is a common side effect of furosemide, a diuretic. Hypokalemia can cause serious cardiac issues and requires prompt attention.
D. Magnesium 1.9 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for magnesium (1.5-2.5 mEq/L), so it is not a concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Have the patient lie in bed with a pillow under the knees: Elevation of the legs can reduce blood flow to the feet, worsening symptoms. Additionally, putting a pillow under the knees can compress arteries further, exacerbating ischemia.
B. Evaluate the distal pulses: Assessing the distal pulses is crucial for determining the severity of blood flow impairment and helps in understanding the extent of peripheral arterial disease.
C. Cover the patient with a blanket: While warmth might provide some comfort, it does not address the underlying vascular issue and is not a primary intervention for this condition.
D. Notify the physician: While it may be necessary eventually, evaluating the patient's distal pulses first will provide critical information that the nurse can report to the physician.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Reduce dietary purines.: This is more relevant for patients with gout, not osteoarthritis. Purine reduction helps control uric acid levels.
B. Begin a jogging program.: High-impact exercises like jogging can exacerbate knee pain and accelerate joint degeneration in osteoarthritis.
C. Maintain ideal body weight.: Maintaining an ideal body weight reduces stress on the knees and helps preserve joint function and delay the progression of osteoarthritis.
D. Maintain normal uric acid levels.: Uric acid levels are related to gout, not osteoarthritis. Maintaining normal levels does not directly affect osteoarthritis.
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