Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely to cause abdominal pain, urinary retention, and confusion?

Sodium (Na+)

Calcium (Ca2+)

Chloride (Cl-)

Phosphates (PO4^3^-)

Potassium (K+)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Sodium (Na+) imbalance can cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or coma, but not abdominal pain or urinary retention.

Choice B reason: Calcium (Ca2+) imbalance can cause abdominal pain, urinary retention, and confusion, as well as muscle weakness, bone pain, and cardiac arrhythmias. These signs are the result of an inadequate supply of calcium, which is essential for nerve and muscle function, as well as bone health.

Choice C reason: Chloride (Cl-) imbalance can cause acid-base disorders such as metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.

Choice D reason: Phosphates (PO4^3^-) imbalance can cause bone and muscle problems, such as rickets, osteomalacia, or tetany, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.

Choice E reason: Potassium (K+) imbalance can cause cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms, such as arrhythmias, palpitations, muscle weakness, or paralysis, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: For an average adult, the total intake should be approximately equal to the total output every day¹². Therefore, if the patient's total output is 2200 mL, the total intake should also be around 2200 mL.

Choice B reason: 3000 mL is more than the recommended daily fluid intake for an average adult, which is about 2500 mL³. If the patient's intake is higher than their output, they may develop fluid overload or edema.

Choice C reason: 3800 mL is much more than the recommended daily fluid intake for an average adult, which is about 2500 mL³. If the patient's intake is higher than their output, they may develop fluid overload or edema.

Choice D reason: 2400 mL is slightly less than the recommended daily fluid intake for an average adult, which is about 2500 mL³. However, if the patient's intake is lower than their output, they may develop dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

A. 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L B. 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL C. 135 to 145 mEq/L D. 1.8 to 2.6 mEq/L

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: This is correct because 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L is the normal range of serum potassium level in adults. Potassium is an electrolyte that is important for nerve and muscle function, as well as acid-base balance.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL is the normal range of serum calcium level in adults, not potassium. Calcium is an electrolyte that is involved in bone health, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because 135 to 145 mEq/L is the normal range of serum sodium level in adults, not potassium. Sodium is an electrolyte that is essential for fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because 1.8 to 2.6 mEq/L is the normal range of serum magnesium level in adults, not potassium. Magnesium is an electrolyte that is important for muscle and nerve function, as well as enzyme activity.

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Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely to cause abdominal pain, urinary retention, and confusion?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Megan's patient is on strict intake and output measurements. Her patient's total output is 2200 mL. What should the total intake be for an average adult?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

What is the normal range of serum potassium level in adults?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Which patient is at the highest risk for dehydration?

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What is the normal range of serum sodium in adults?

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