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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Drinking 14 glasses of water daily is not specifically harmful for patients with thrombocytopenia, though it is important to ensure fluid intake is balanced with the individual's needs. However, excessive water intake is generally not related to increased bleeding risks, which is a primary concern for patients with low platelet counts.
Choice B rationale: Shaving once a day using an electric razor is an appropriate precaution for patients with thrombocytopenia. Electric razors are less likely to cause cuts compared to traditional razors, thereby reducing the risk of bleeding. This measure is important for individuals with low platelet counts to minimize the risk of bleeding from minor injuries.
Choice C rationale: Using an alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day is not recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia. Alcohol-based mouthwash can cause dryness and irritation of the mucous membranes, which may lead to bleeding, especially in individuals with low platelet counts. Instead, non-alcoholic mouthwashes should be used to maintain oral hygiene without the risk of causing mucosal damage.
Choice D rationale: Brushing teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush twice a day is recommended for patients with thrombocytopenia. Soft-bristle toothbrushes help reduce the risk of gum injury and bleeding, which is important for individuals with low platelet counts. Maintaining good oral hygiene with minimal trauma is crucial for these patients
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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