The nurse observes the following EKG. Which lab would the nurse correlate with this finding?
Na + 134
K+ 6.1
K+ 2.1
Mg+ 18
The Correct Answer is C
A. Mild hyponatremia (Sodium < 135 mEq/L) typically does not produce distinctive ECG changes. This value is unlikely to correlate with the presence of U waves.
B. Hyperkalemia (Potassium > 5.0 mEq/L) is associated with peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, and flattened or absent P waves, not U waves.
C. Hypokalemia (Potassium < 3.5 mEq/L) is the primary cause of U waves. A potassium level of 2.1 mEq/L is significantly low and can result in ECG changes, including U waves, ST segment depression, and prolonged QT intervals. These changes reflect altered ventricular repolarization.
D. Hypermagnesemia (Magnesium > 2.5 mEq/L) can cause ECG changes such as prolonged PR and QRS intervals, bradycardia, and heart block. However, such an extreme magnesium level of 18 mEq/L would cause severe toxicity and is not associated with U waves.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cleaning the skin and clipping hairs ensures good electrode contact, which is essential for accurate ECG readings. This is the correct statement.
B. Oxygen should not be turned off unless specifically instructed by a provider. It does not interfere with ECG monitoring.
C. Electrodes should be placed on the anterior chest for standard ECG monitoring, not on the posterior chest.
D. Electrodes for ECG monitoring typically come with adhesive backing and do not require additional gel.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will make sure that my partner takes all the prescribed medication.": This is the correct answer. Expedited partner therapy involves treating the partner(s) without an initial clinical visit, so ensuring they take all prescribed medications is essential to prevent reinfection.
B. "I will have my partner take the antibiotics if any STI symptoms occur.": This is incorrect because the partner should take the antibiotics regardless of symptoms to effectively treat the infection.
C. "I will have my partner use a condom until I finish the antibiotics.": While condom use is important, it does not replace the need for the partner to receive treatment.
D. "I will tell my partner that it is important to be examined at the clinic.": Although important, expedited partner therapy aims to provide treatment without a clinic visit.
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