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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Normalized electrolytes are important but do not specifically indicate gastrointestinal motility.
B. Decreased nausea can be a sign of improvement but is less specific than passing flatus.
C. Passing flatus indicates that there is movement of gas through the intestines, which is a direct sign of returning gastrointestinal motility.
D. Return of appetite can occur for various reasons and is not as direct an indicator of GI motility as passing flatus.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While monitoring troponin levels is important for diagnosing myocardial infarction, immediate relief of chest pressure and shortness of breath is a higher priority.
B. Placing an indwelling urinary catheter and measuring intake and output is not the immediate priority for managing acute chest pain and potential myocardial ischemia.
C. Counting premature ventricular contractions is useful but not the most immediate action in managing acute chest pressure and shortness of breath.
D. Recording the pain score and administering sublingual nitroglycerine addresses the acute symptoms of chest pressure and shortness of breath, aiming to relieve myocardial ischemia.
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