A client who has been receiving diuretic therapy is admitted to the emergency department with a serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L. The nurse should alert the health care provider immediately that the client is on which medication?
Lantus insulin 24 U subcutaneously every evening
Oral digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.25 mg daily
Metoprolol (Lopressor) 12.5 mg orally daily
Ibuprofen (Motrin) 400 mg every 6 hours
The Correct Answer is B
A. Lantus insulin does not directly affect potassium levels in the same way that digoxin does.
B. A potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is low, and digoxin toxicity can occur when potassium levels are low, leading to an increased risk of arrhythmias. This requires immediate attention to avoid serious complications.
C. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that does not directly cause hypokalemia and is less of an immediate concern.
D. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that could affect kidney function but does not directly impact potassium levels as significantly as digoxin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used in some cases, but TRUS is more commonly used to guide biopsies after concerns arise from DRE or PSA findings.
B. Uroflowmetry studies measure urine flow, which is not the primary concern in evaluating an enlarged prostate related to potential cancer.
C. Cystourethroscopy is used to evaluate the bladder or urethra and is not typically needed in the assessment of an enlarged prostate.
D. Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) is commonly used in the evaluation of prostate abnormalities, especially when there are concerns about prostate cancer due to an abnormal DRE or elevated PSA. It helps in visualizing the prostate and guiding biopsy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Neurologic status is important to monitor but is not directly related to evaluating calcium gluconate's effect on hyperkalemia.
B. Urine volume would not directly reflect the immediate effects of calcium gluconate in managing hyperkalemia.
C. Calcium gluconate is given to protect the heart from the effects of hyperkalemia by stabilizing the cardiac membrane. Monitoring the cardiac rhythm is essential to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
D. The calcium level is relevant for monitoring the calcium treatment, but cardiac rhythm is a more immediate indicator of its effectiveness.
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