A client recovering from cardiac surgery experiences a dysrhythmia, noted on the telemetry monitor. Which assessment finding is most likely to have contributed to the development of the dysrhythmia?

Reference Range:

Total Calcium [8.4 to 10.6 mg/dL (2.10 to 2.50 mmol/L)]

Sodium [136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)]

Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

Calcium level 7.2 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L).

Potassium level 3.8 mg/dl. (3.8 mmol)

Sodium level 140 mEq/L (140mmol/L).

Oxygen saturation level 97%.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   This calcium level is below the normal reference range (8.4 to 10.6 mg/dL or 2.10 to 2.50 mmol/L), indicating hypocalcemia. Calcium plays a crucial role in cardiac muscle contraction and electrical conduction. Low calcium levels can lead to various cardiac dysrhythmias, including prolonged QT intervals and increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias.

B.   This potassium level falls within the normal range (3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L or 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L). Potassium is essential for maintaining normal cardiac rhythm, but a level of 3.8 mg/dL is not abnormal and, therefore, is less likely to be the cause of a dysrhythmia compared to abnormal levels.
C.   This sodium level is within the normal reference range (136 to 145 mEq/L or 136 to 145 mmol/L). Sodium levels typically do not directly cause dysrhythmias unless they are extremely high or low, which is not the case here. Thus, a sodium level of 140 mEq/L is not likely to be the primary contributor to the dysrhythmia.
D.   This oxygen saturation level is considered normal (95% to 100%). While oxygenation is critical for overall heart function and can influence cardiac health, a saturation level of 97% is not likely to be a direct cause of a dysrhythmia, especially if it falls within the normal range.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Weight lifting can be beneficial for overall fitness, but for someone with chronic venous insufficiency, the focus should be on activities that improve venous return and avoid excessive strain on the legs. Heavy weight lifting might exacerbate symptoms or lead to further complications.
B. For individuals with chronic venous insufficiency, prolonged standing can worsen symptoms such as swelling and pain. It’s important to avoid standing for long periods and to use measures such as leg elevation and compression stockings to manage symptoms.
C. This statement reflects an understanding of good practices for managing chronic venous insufficiency. Sitting for prolonged periods and crossing the legs can impede venous return and worsen symptoms of CVI. It is advised to avoid these practices and instead frequently change positions, elevate the legs, and use compression stockings to improve circulation.
D. While getting help to walk a dog could be beneficial if the client is unable to walk or if walking exacerbates symptoms, this statement does not directly address key aspects of managing chronic venous insufficiency. Regular walking is generally recommended to enhance venous return and prevent complications, assuming it is done within the client’s tolerance and ability.

A. An increase in the hematocrit (HCT) from 42% (0.42 volume fraction) to 52% (0.52 volume fraction). B. An increase in the blood glucose level from 130 mg/dl. (7.22 mmol/L). C. A decrease in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) from 36 mg/dL (12.9 mmol/L) to 23 mg/dL (8.21 mmol/L). D. A decrease in serum amylase from 24 units/dl (240 units) to 12 units/dl. (120 units/L);

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. This would indicate fluid volume deficit, not improvement. Increasing IV fluids should lead to a decrease in hematocrit, not an increase.
B. This is not a desired outcome for a patient with pancreatitis, as hyperglycemia is a common complication. The focus should be on maintaining stable blood glucose levels.
C. BUN is a marker of kidney function and hydration status. A decrease in BUN indicates improved renal perfusion, which is a therapeutic outcome of increasing IV fluids.
D. While a decrease in amylase is generally a good sign for pancreatitis, it is not a direct result of increasing IV fluids. Amylase levels decrease as the pancreatitis improves.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with chronic venous insufficiency is being discharged from the hospital, and plans to return home. Which client statement indicates an understanding of home care instructions?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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