Which assessment finding will the nurse expect for a patient with the following laboratory values: sodium 145 mEq/L, potassium 45 mq, calcium 45 mg/dL?

Light-headedness when standing up

Weak quadriceps muscles

Decreased deep tendon reflexes

Tingling of extremities

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Light-headedness when standing up:
Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, cardiac dysrhythmias, and even cardiac arrest. Light-headedness when standing up is more commonly associated with orthostatic hypotension or volume depletion rather than electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia.

B. Weak quadriceps muscles:
Weakness in the quadriceps muscles is not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can cause muscle weakness, but it is not specific to the quadriceps.

C. Decreased deep tendon reflexes:
Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can lead to hyperreflexia or absent reflexes, but it is not specific to decreased deep tendon reflexes.

D. Tingling of extremities:
This is the correct answer. Hypocalcemia, indicated by the low calcium level in the scenario, can manifest with symptoms such as tingling or numbness of the extremities, muscle cramps, and tetany. Calcium plays a crucial role in nerve transmission, and low levels can lead to sensory disturbances like tingling in the extremities.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) An older adult who is confused and has urinary frequency:
This client is at the greatest risk for a fall due to several factors. Confusion increases the likelihood of disorientation and impaired judgment, leading to accidents. Urinary frequency may necessitate frequent trips to the bathroom, increasing the chances of falls, especially if the client is disoriented or unsteady on their feet.

B) An older adult with hearing impairment:
While hearing impairment can contribute to a fall risk by limiting the client's ability to hear warnings or instructions, it may not pose as immediate a risk as confusion and urinary frequency, which directly affect mobility and judgment.

C) A client who has a dressing on his foot due to a pressure ulcer:
While having a dressing on the foot due to a pressure ulcer increases the risk of falls by potentially affecting the client's gait and balance, it may not be as significant a risk factor as confusion and urinary frequency, which directly impact the client's ability to safely navigate their environment.

D) A client who has osteoarthritis and uses a walker:
Although osteoarthritis and the use of a walker can contribute to mobility issues and an increased risk of falls, they may not present as immediate a risk as confusion and urinary frequency, which can lead to more unpredictable and hazardous situations.

A. Pain level B. Pulse oximetry C. Blood pressure D. Level of sedation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Pain level:
While assessing pain is important to determine the effectiveness of the pain management, it is not the immediate priority after administering an opioid.

B) Pulse oximetry:
Monitoring oxygen saturation is critical as opioids can depress respiratory function. However, it is indirectly related to the primary effect of the medication on the central nervous system.

C) Blood pressure:
Monitoring blood pressure is important as opioids can cause hypotension, but it is not as critical as monitoring the level of sedation and respiratory status.

D) Level of sedation:
This is the priority because opioids can cause significant sedation and respiratory depression. Assessing the level of sedation helps determine if the client is at risk of further complications like respiratory arrest. Over-sedation can be a precursor to more serious complications, making this assessment crucial.

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Which assessment finding will the nurse expect for a patient with the following laboratory values: sodium 145 mEq/L, potassium 45 mq, calcium 45 mg/dL?

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