A client was seen in the emergency room with a complaint of severe episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, and complains of feeling lightheaded.
Which laboratory test should the nurse prioritize?
Blood glucose levels.
Serum potassium levels.
Lipid profile.
Thyroid function tests.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Blood glucose levels are important but are not the immediate priority for assessing the cause of severe vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are more likely to be the cause.
Choice B rationale
Serum potassium levels should be prioritized as vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant potassium loss, which can result in dangerous cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms. Assessing potassium levels is crucial in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Lipid profile is not relevant in the acute assessment of severe vomiting, diarrhea, and lightheadedness. This test is more useful for long-term cardiovascular risk assessment.
Choice D rationale
Thyroid function tests are not immediately relevant to the acute symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are a more immediate concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice B rationale
Radiating pain to the left arm is a classic symptom of a myocardial infarction (MI). This pain occurs due to the heart muscle not receiving enough oxygen, often because of a blockage in one or more coronary arteries. The pain can radiate to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back, and is a key indicator for diagnosing an MI.
Choice A rationale
Nausea and vomiting can occur during an MI but are not the most distinctive symptoms for diagnosis. They can also be associated with other conditions, making them less specific indicators of MI.
Choice C rationale
Shortness of breath is a common symptom during an MI, resulting from reduced oxygen supply to the heart. However, while it is an important clinical manifestation, it can also be associated with other cardiac or respiratory conditions.
Choice D rationale
Headache is not a typical symptom of an MI. It is less commonly associated with heart attacks and can be caused by a wide range of other factors, making it an unreliable symptom for diagnosing MI.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring blood glucose levels more frequently is critical when a client with type 1 diabetes is taking prednisone, as corticosteroids can raise blood glucose levels and potentially cause hyperglycemia.
Choice B rationale
Increasing sodium intake is not recommended for clients with type 1 diabetes and is unrelated to the management of prednisone-induced hyperglycemia.
Choice C rationale
Stopping all other diabetes medications is inappropriate and can lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels. Adjustments may be needed, but discontinuation is not advised without medical supervision.
Choice D rationale
Skipping meals to prevent hyperglycemia is not a safe practice for clients with type 1 diabetes. Maintaining a balanced diet and monitoring blood glucose levels is essential.
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