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The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a group of patients. Which value should be of most concern to the nurse?

A.

Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L)

B.

Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L)

C.

Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL)

D.

Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L): This sodium level is within the normal range and is not of concern.

B. Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L): This value is below the normal range, indicating hypomagnesemia, which can cause serious complications such as arrhythmias, neuromuscular irritability, and seizures. This is the most concerning value.

C. Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL): This calcium level is within the normal range and is not concerning.

D. Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L): This potassium level is at the low end of normal. While it is something to monitor, it is not immediately concerning compared to hypomagnesemia.

 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"B"}

Explanation

Answer: I. Temperature
II. Antibiotic therapy

I. Temperature: The client has a fever (37.3°C), which can be a sign of infection or another serious condition. The first priority is to address the fever, as it may indicate a systemic infection, which needs immediate intervention. Fever is usually managed with antipyretics such as acetaminophen.

II. Antibiotic therapy: Since the client has a fever and possible infection, antibiotic therapy should be initiated early (as per the provider’s orders) to treat the suspected infection. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are often started while waiting for culture results.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. 0.9% sodium chloride: Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) is the standard solution that can be administered with blood products. It is isotonic and does not cause hemolysis or alter the structure of red blood cells.

B. Lactated Ringers solution: Lactated Ringers solution is not used with blood products due to the potential for hemolysis when calcium is present, which can interfere with the clotting cascade and affect blood cell integrity.

C. 5% dextrose/0.2% sodium chloride: Dextrose solutions should not be used with blood components, as they can cause red blood cells to hemolyze, leading to hemolysis and complications in transfusion.

D. 5% dextrose/0.45% sodium chloride: This solution contains dextrose, which can cause red blood cell hemolysis and should not be used with blood products.

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