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. A patient with a BP of 170/80 mm Hg with a mild headache: Although high, this BP is not as immediately critical as 180/120 mm Hg. The patient is experiencing only a mild headache, indicating less urgency.
B. A patient with a BP of 180/120 mm Hg who is asymptomatic: This BP level indicates a hypertensive crisis, which can lead to life-threatening complications such as stroke or heart attack, even if the patient is asymptomatic. Immediate intervention is needed to lower the BP safely.
C. A patient with a BP of 150/60 mm Hg who is anxious: This BP is elevated but not critically so. Anxiety management may be necessary but is not as urgent as managing a hypertensive crisis.
D. A patient with a blood pressure (BP) of 140/70 mm Hg who has a nosebleed: This BP is relatively mild compared to 180/120 mm Hg and is less immediately threatening, even with a nosebleed.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ecchymosis: Ecchymosis (bruising) is not a typical symptom of peripheral arterial occlusive disease. It generally indicates bleeding or trauma to the skin and subcutaneous tissues.
B. Stasis ulcers: Stasis ulcers are associated with chronic venous insufficiency, not peripheral arterial disease.
C. Angina: Angina refers to chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart, and it is associated with coronary artery disease, not peripheral arterial occlusive disease.
D. Intermittent claudication: This is the classic symptom of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, characterized by muscle pain or cramping in the legs triggered by physical activity and relieved by rest. It is due to insufficient blood flow to the muscles during exercise.
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