A client with alcoholism is admitted to a medical-surgical unit with a serum magnesium level of 0.9 mEq/L. Which clinical manifestations would the nurse expect to find in this client?
Tremors and twitching
Positive Chvostek's sign
Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Polyuria and flank pain
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer. Tremors and twitching are signs of hypomagnesemia, which is a low level of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many enzymatic reactions and neuromuscular functions. A low magnesium level can cause hyperexcitability of the nerves and muscles, leading to involuntary movements and spasms. Alcoholism can cause hypomagnesemia by reducing the absorption and increasing the excretion of magnesium.
Choice B reason: Positive Chvostek's sign is not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Calcium is another mineral that is important for the function of nerves and muscles. A low calcium level can cause tetany, which is a condition of sustained muscle contraction. Chvostek's sign is a test that involves tapping the facial nerve in front of the ear and observing for a twitching of the facial muscles. A positive Chvostek's sign indicates hypocalcemia, not hypomagnesemia.
Choice C reason: Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not a sign of hypomagnesemia, but of hypermagnesemia, which is a high level of magnesium in the blood. A high magnesium level can cause hyporeflexia, which is a reduced or absent response to stimuli. Magnesium has a sedative effect on the nerves and muscles, and can inhibit the transmission of impulses. Hypermagnesemia can be caused by excessive intake or impaired excretion of magnesium.
Choice D reason: Polyuria and flank pain are not signs of hypomagnesemia, but of kidney problems, such as infection, stones, or failure. Polyuria is the production of abnormally large amounts of urine, and flank pain is the pain in the side or back below the ribs. These symptoms can indicate damage or inflammation of the kidneys, which can affect the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body. Hypomagnesemia does not directly cause polyuria or flank pain, but it can be a result of kidney dysfunction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a high-fat, high-sodium, and high-calorie meal that is not suitable for a client with hypertension. Fried foods, processed meats, and baked beans are sources of saturated fat and sodium that can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Cake is a source of added sugar that can contribute to obesity and diabetes.
Choice B reason: This is a moderate-fat, moderate-sodium, and moderate-calorie meal that is not ideal for a client with hypertension. Fried flounder and tomato soup are sources of fat and sodium that can increase blood pressure. White rice is a refined carbohydrate that can spike blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes.
Choice C reason: This is a high-fat, high-sodium, and high-calorie meal that is not appropriate for a client with hypertension. Barbecue pulled pork sandwich, mashed potatoes, and ice cream are sources of saturated fat and sodium that can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Fresh green beans are the only healthy component of this meal.
Choice D reason: This is a low-fat, low-sodium, and low-calorie meal that is suitable for a client with hypertension. Baked tuna, fresh broccoli, brown rice, and fresh cantaloupe are sources of lean protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, prevent obesity and diabetes, and promote cardiovascular health.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The pain you have is because your heart valves are damaged is not the most appropriate response. This statement may apply to a client with valvular heart disease, but not necessarily to a client with coronary artery disease. The nurse should explain that coronary artery disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels that supply the heart, not the heart valves.
Choice B reason: Your heart muscle is weak and is not pumping forcefully is not the most appropriate response. This statement may apply to a client with heart failure, but not necessarily to a client with coronary artery disease. The nurse should explain that coronary artery disease is a condition that reduces the blood flow to the heart, not the heart's contractility.
Choice C reason: The pain is caused by decreased oxygen to the heart muscle is the most appropriate response. This statement accurately describes the cause of angina, which is the chest pain that occurs when the heart does not receive enough oxygen due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. The nurse should also inform the client about the factors that can trigger or relieve angina, such as physical exertion, emotional stress, cold weather, or nitroglycerin.
Choice D reason: The layers of your heart are weak and thin is not the most appropriate response. This statement may apply to a client with cardiomyopathy, but not necessarily to a client with coronary artery disease. The nurse should explain that coronary artery disease is a condition that affects the blood vessels that supply the heart, not the heart's structure.
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