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 ["4"]
Explanation
The client has been prescribed a one-time dose of metronidazole 2 grams by mouth.
Since 1 gram is equal to 1000 milligrams (mg), 2 grams is equal to 2000 mg.
The medication is available in 500 mg tablets, so the nurse should administer 2000 mg / 500 mg/tablet = 4 tablets.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This will help determine if there is any residual urine left in the bladder after voiding.
Choice A is not the answer because reviewing the chart for the number of voids over the last 24 hours is important but not sufficient to evaluate for urinary retention.
Choice B is not the answer because evaluating for urinary incontinence is important but not sufficient to evaluate for urinary retention.
Choice D is not the answer because while palpating the suprapubic region for distention can provide some information, scanning the bladder after voiding is a more accurate way to evaluate for urinary retention.
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