When assessing a client with an ionized calcium level of 17 mg/dL (4.25 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range

lonized Calcium [Adult 4.6 to 5.1 mg/dL (1.15 to 1.35 mmol/L)]

Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.

Observe color and amount of urine.

Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.

Compare muscle strength bilaterally

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   An ionized calcium level significantly above the reference range can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and requires immediate attention to assess cardiac function.
B.   While urine output and characteristics are important indicators of renal function, cardiac assessment takes priority due to the potential cardiac effects of hypercalcemia.
C.   Assessment of deep tendon reflexes is relevant since hypercalcemia can lead to muscle weakness and diminished reflexes. However, this should be done after assessing for any cardiac dysrhythmias.
D.   Comparing muscle strength bilaterally is important for assessing neurological integrity but is not the priority when hypercalcemia is suspected.

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Correct Answer is ["1.4"]

Explanation

To calculate the dosage of lorazepam for the client, first determine the total micrograms required by multiplying the client's weight in kilograms by the prescribed amount per kilogram. For a client weighing 65 kg prescribed 44 mcg/kg, the total dosage would be 65 kg x 44 mcg/kg, which equals 2860 mcg. Since the medication is available in a concentration of 2 mg/ml, convert the total dosage from micrograms to milligrams by dividing by 1000 (because there are 1000 micrograms in a milligram). This results in 2.86 mg. Finally, to find out how many milliliters to administer, divide the total milligrams needed by the concentration of the vial, which is 2 mg/ml. Therefore, 2.86 mg / 2 mg/ml equals 1.43 ml. When rounding to the nearest tenth, the nurse should administer 1.4 ml of lorazepam.

A. A sluggish blood return. B. Red streak tracking the vein. C. Circumferential skin irritation. C. Cool sensation above the site.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Sluggish blood return suggests a need for assessment but is not immediately critical.

B. A red streak tracking the vein indicates phlebitis or infection, requiring immediate intervention to prevent complications such as thrombophlebitis or sepsis.
C. Circumferential skin irritation is concerning but not as urgent as a sign of infection.
D. A cool sensation might indicate infiltration but is less critical compared to signs of infection or phlebitis.

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When assessing a client with an ionized calcium level of 17 mg/dL (4.25 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement? Reference Range lonized Calcium [Adult 4.6 to 5.1 mg/dL (1.15 to 1.35 mmol/L)]

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is ["1.4"]

Explanation

The nurse is performing a routine assessment of an IV site for a client receiving both IV fluids and medications through the line. The client reports tenderness when the nurse touches the arm above the site. Which finding should the nurse expect which will require immediate intervention?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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When assessing a client with an ionized calcium level of 17 mg/dL (4.25 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range

lonized Calcium [Adult 4.6 to 5.1 mg/dL (1.15 to 1.35 mmol/L)]