Which serum electrolyte value alerts the nurse to the possibility of hyperaldosteronism?
Serum sodium, 150 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L
Serum sodium, 140 mmol/L; serum potassium, 5.0 mmol/L
Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 7.5 mmol/L
Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hyperaldosteronism causes sodium retention and potassium excretion, leading to elevated serum sodium levels and low potassium levels. A serum potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L is indicative of hypokalemia, which is a classic finding in hyperaldosteronism.
B. This serum electrolyte pattern (normal sodium and potassium) is not suggestive of hyperaldosteronism.
C. In hyperaldosteronism, the serum sodium is typically elevated, but the potassium level is very low, not elevated as seen in this option.
D. While low potassium is indicative of hyperaldosteronism, the sodium level is abnormally low in this case, which is not typical for this condition. Hyperaldosteronism typically presents with elevated sodium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Polyuria is typically a symptom of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia. When blood glucose is elevated, the kidneys attempt to excrete the excess glucose, leading to increased urination.
B. Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is a common sign of hypoglycemia due to the body's stress response to low blood sugar. The release of adrenaline (epinephrine) can cause a rapid heart rate.
C. Blurred vision can occur with hypoglycemia because low glucose levels can affect the function of the retina and cause vision changes. This can resolve once the blood glucose level is normalized.
D. Polydipsia (excessive thirst) is more commonly seen in hyperglycemia, as high blood glucose leads to dehydration due to increased urination.
E. Moist, clammy skin is a classic sign of hypoglycemia. When blood sugar drops too low, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can cause sweating and clammy skin.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. HCO3 (bicarbonate) levels above 26 mEq/L indicate alkalosis, not acidosis. In metabolic acidosis, the HCO3 levels would be low as the body attempts to neutralize excess acid.
B. In metabolic acidosis, the pH is expected to be below 7.35 because metabolic acidosis indicates an accumulation of acid or loss of bicarbonate, which lowers the blood pH.
C. PaO2 (partial pressure of oxygen) below 70 mm Hg typically indicates hypoxemia, not necessarily metabolic acidosis. The primary concern with metabolic acidosis is the balance of acid-base status, not oxygenation.
D. PaCO2 above 45 mm Hg would suggest respiratory acidosis rather than metabolic acidosis. In metabolic acidosis, the body compensates by hyperventilating to blow off CO2 and raise the pH, resulting in a normal or low PaCO2.
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