Which rationale supports the nurse's assessment of a patient's magnesium level?
The electrolyte is the most abundant intracellular cation present in the body.
The electrolyte may cause extracellular fluid overload.
Magnesium may affect neuromuscular excitability and contractility.
The patient is at risk for hypotension when the levels of magnesium decrease.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
While magnesium is indeed the most abundant intracellular cation in the body, this fact alone does not explain why the nurse would assess the patient's magnesium level.
Choice B rationale:
Magnesium imbalance can cause issues in the extracellular fluid compartment, but this choice does not explain why the nurse would specifically assess the patient's magnesium level.
Choice D rationale:
While hypotension can be a symptom of severe magnesium deficiency, this choice does not provide a rationale for assessing the patient's magnesium level. In this case, choice C is correct because magnesium plays a crucial role in neuromuscular excitability and contractility. Abnormal magnesium levels can lead to neuromuscular symptoms such as muscle weakness, tremors, and spasms. Additionally, magnesium is involved in cardiac muscle function, and low magnesium levels can lead to arrhythmias and other cardiac issues. Therefore, assessing the patient's magnesium level is essential in understanding their neuromuscular and cardiac health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Taking a daily walk is a beneficial activity for patients with venous leg ulcers. Walking promotes blood circulation, which can aid in wound healing. This statement indicates that the patient understands the importance of physical activity for their condition.
Choice B rationale:
Trying to lose weight is another positive step for a patient with venous leg ulcers, especially if the patient is overweight. Excess body weight can put additional pressure on the veins in the legs, worsening venous insufficiency. Losing weight can alleviate this pressure and improve venous circulation, supporting the healing process of leg ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
Wearing stockings after getting out of bed is a proper technique for managing venous leg ulcers. Compression stockings help improve blood flow in the legs and reduce swelling, which is beneficial for patients with venous insufficiency and leg ulcers. This statement indicates that the patient understands the importance of wearing compression stockings consistently.
Choice D rationale:
Not wearing knee-high socks that are tight around the calf is essential advice for patients with venous leg ulcers. Tight clothing, including socks or stockings, can impede blood circulation in the legs, worsening venous insufficiency and delaying wound healing. This statement indicates the need for further education because the patient should avoid any tight clothing around the affected area to promote optimal blood flow and wound healing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Uses an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day.
Choice A rationale:
Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is generally beneficial as it helps maintain hydration and supports overall health. However, it is important to balance fluid intake to avoid overhydration.
Choice B rationale:
Shaving with an electric razor is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia because it reduces the risk of cuts and bleeding compared to using a traditional razor.
Choice C rationale:
Using an alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the oral mucosa, which can lead to bleeding, especially in patients with thrombocytopenia. It is better to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash.
Choice D rationale:
Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush is advised to minimize the risk of gum bleeding and maintain oral hygiene.
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