Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with refeeding syndrome?
Hypermagnesemia
Hypercalcemia
Hypophosphatemia
Hyponatremia
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Magnesium levels may actually drop, not rise, during refeeding syndrome due to intracellular shifts.
B. Calcium levels are typically not elevated as a direct result of refeeding syndrome.
C. Refeeding syndrome occurs when malnourished patients receive rapid carbohydrate reintroduction, triggering insulin release. This drives phosphate, potassium, and magnesium into cells, with phosphate depletion being the hallmark and most clinically significant electrolyte disturbance. Hypophosphatemia can cause muscle weakness, respiratory failure, and cardiac dysfunction.
D. Sodium levels may fluctuate, but hyponatremia is not the primary concern in refeeding syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Pain assessment is important but not the immediate priority following an EGD. Discomfort is expected after the procedure, yet it does not pose the greatest risk to airway safety.
B. Nausea should be monitored, especially since sedation and irritation of the upper GI tract can cause vomiting, but this is not the most critical concern immediately after the procedure.
C. The gag reflex must be assessed first because topical anesthetics used during the EGD suppress the swallowing and protective airway reflexes. If oral fluids or food are given before the gag reflex returns, the client is at high risk for aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia or airway obstruction. Ensuring the gag reflex has returned is the priority safety measure before advancing the diet or giving oral medications.
D. Level of consciousness should also be assessed, since sedatives are commonly used during the procedure. However, the risk of aspiration from an absent gag reflex presents a more immediate threat to life and therefore takes priority.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. A CBC may show leukocytosis but is not diagnostic for pancreatitis.
B. AST/ALT may be elevated if biliary obstruction is present, but they are not specific for pancreatitis.
C. Blood glucose may rise in pancreatitis due to impaired insulin release, but it is not diagnostic.
D. Amylase and lipase levels are the primary diagnostic lab tests for acute pancreatitis, with lipase being more specific and remaining elevated longer.
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