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 C
Explanation
A. Increase carbohydrate intake.: This is incorrect. Cushing’s disease is characterized by excessive cortisol, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels, making carbohydrate intake less desirable. Clients with Cushing's disease often need to manage their blood sugar levels, so they should not increase carbohydrates indiscriminately.
B. Limit intake of potassium-rich foods.: This is incorrect. In Cushing’s disease, elevated cortisol levels can lead to potassium depletion, so clients should actually increase their intake of potassium-rich foods to help counteract the effects of low potassium, not limit them.
C. Restrict sodium intake.: This is correct. Cushing’s disease often results in fluid retention and hypertension due to increased cortisol and aldosterone levels. Restricting sodium helps manage these symptoms and reduces the risk of complications such as edema and high blood pressure.
D. Decrease protein intake.: This is incorrect. While protein breakdown is a feature of Cushing's disease, protein intake should not necessarily be decreased. Adequate protein intake is important to prevent muscle wasting, a common issue in clients with Cushing’s disease.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is a common finding in pneumonia due to hypoxia and the body's attempt to compensate for impaired gas exchange in the lungs. It is one of the hallmark signs of pneumonia.
B. Bradycardia is uncommon in pneumonia. Tachycardia (increased heart rate) is more frequently observed as the body compensates for the infection and reduced oxygenation.
C. Hypothermia is not typically associated with pneumonia; more commonly, fever (hyperthermia) is present as a sign of infection.
D. A pulse deficit is a sign of a heart condition, such as atrial fibrillation, not typically related to pneumonia.
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