When using a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Compare muscle strength bilaterally.
Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.
Measure color and amount of urine.
Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.
The Correct Answer is B
Hyperkalemia is a condition where there is an elevated level of potassium in the blood.
It can occur in patients with renal disease due to the kidneys’ reduced ability to excrete potassium.
Treatment-related side effects, such as certain medications or chemotherapy, can also contribute to hyperkalemia by altering potassium levels in the body1.
Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac conduction disturbances2.
Therefore, it is important for the nurse to determine the apical pulse rate and rhythm.
Choice A is not correct because comparing muscle strength bilaterally is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Choice C is not correct because measuring color and amount of urine is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Choice D is not correct because assessing strength of deep tendon reflexes is not the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Solid stool with red streaks may indicate lower gastrointestinal bleeding and requires further evaluation.
B. Formed but soft stool is a normal finding and does not require follow-up.
C. Brown liquid stool may suggest diarrhea or malabsorption issues, warranting further assessment.
D. A tarry appearance can indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding and requires prompt follow-up.
E. Multiple hard pellets may indicate constipation or dehydration and should be addressed.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response shows that the nurse is willing to listen and provide support to the client.
It also allows the client to decide if they want to talk and share their feelings.
Choice A is not correct because it is not the most therapeutic response.
While it does encourage the client to talk about their visit with their significant other, it does not show that the nurse is willing to listen and provide support.
Choice B is not correct because it is not the most therapeutic response.
While it does acknowledge that the client may be feeling lonely, it does not show that the nurse is willing to listen and provide support.
Choice D is not correct because it is not the most therapeutic response.
While it does encourage the client to talk about their visit, it does not show that the nurse is willing to listen and provide support.
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